Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be solved.
If your door or
window replacement near me is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor
local issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can often be fixed. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.
In some instances, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a
local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.
If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass,
Local causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good option if you're looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered.