Double Glazed Windows Repairs Tips From The Most Effective In The Business
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. window repairs that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be used as an option last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
As a longer-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 this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out over time and create drafts between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this is often fixed. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some cases an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once 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 brand new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog may return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. 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.