Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be fixed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. double glazing repairs Beaconsfield 's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be used as a last resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out over time and cause drafts 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 out. You can save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your case.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.