Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should come off relatively quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used only as the last option. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long it might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out in time and create drafts between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain situations professionals might website be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to correct this issue. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your claim.
In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, 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 know the symptoms and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.