Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, cheap solution.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy-efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before window repairs near me start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal will be damaged in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed immediately.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
In some cases an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still provide a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you notice them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog could return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.