Why Double Glazed Windows Repairs Could Be Your Next Big Obsession
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the 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 may be reused if they're 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 the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window repair. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may break down over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window repairs, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This should be handled by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple 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 may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually 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.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out 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. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.