Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window 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
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
double glazing repairs Huntingdon can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain cases, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. It is usually a matter of making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues immediately you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
In certain situations the window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, 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 it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and is a great option in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can attempt 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 reduce the number of repairs.