Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may become degraded in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed immediately.
You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should only be only used as a last option. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long it might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that 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 create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will allow warm air in 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 consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ tools designed to windows company near me push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant, 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 typical issue that many people face. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it replacement windows near me can be easily solved. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, double glazed windows near me draughts and leaks.
If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
In some cases the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows windows and door near me to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top 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, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means windows supply near me that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.