Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a simple, inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before double glazed windows repair start, grease the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.
For a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as a last option. If the condensation is left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and 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 the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In some cases an expert might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.
double glazing window repair have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your claim.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop the moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.