5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Lessons From The Pros
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try 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 may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. 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 and they should fall away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. 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 are still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Dry window repair near me out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
For a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should only be only used as a last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient 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 space between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are 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 the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'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 a reliable draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this is often fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.
A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make the seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It's best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.