Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.
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 damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. window repairs near me will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often fixed. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and tell them of any problems when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek 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 for your window. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could be re-created.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.