The Reason Why Everyone Is Talking About Double Glazed Windows Repairs Right Now
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Most of these problems are fixable.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. This is usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if necessary.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will 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 it's not addressed immediately.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be used as a last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.
In some instances, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken 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 placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.