Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good shape.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, install Berkhamsted double glazing .
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if required.
It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.
You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation is left for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's 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 outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.
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. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.
A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can come back.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.