How To Tell If You're Ready For Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider 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 insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. With Woking double glazing repairs caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It is typically caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be used only as the last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught 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 cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. It is usually a matter of making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.
When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog may come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.