Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will help 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 away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final option. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long, you might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
The rubber seals get worn out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bill.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of upvc repair sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.
In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.