10 Double Glazed Windows Repairs That Are Unexpected
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last resort. If window repairs let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be solved. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues as soon as you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.
A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just 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 knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. 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 tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know 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, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.