Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and cheap solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets 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 wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as required.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time and allow cool air to flow 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 to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This 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 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 apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.
This is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
Contact the company from which you bought your windows and let them know of any issues as soon as you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your claim.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create an airtight seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. double glazing repairs Dover will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.