Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and 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 is still present it is recommended to 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 could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be only used as the 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 handled by an expert.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this is often solved. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your case.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to repair them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Kingston window repair offer defogging, which involves putting 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 inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice when you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.