Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable solution.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good shape.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
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 cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should only be used only as an option last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. window repair near me 'll save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain cases an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is usually possible to correct this issue. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
Contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues when you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.
In some instances an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not prevent the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.