Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to call in an expert to determine the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than trying to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
You should contact the company through which you bought your windows and inform them of any issues immediately you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your message. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. Inputting 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. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top 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, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the here window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.
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 solution and is a great option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.