5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Lessons From The Professionals
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if not addressed immediately.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be only used as an option last option. If the condensation is left for a long time it could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.
This is a simple issue to repair and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain situations, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. 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 a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.