15 Interesting Facts About Double Glazed Windows Repairs You've Never Seen
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood 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 frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your 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 become degraded in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation is left for too long it might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During this process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's 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 outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.
In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice if you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.