Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and then 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 using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as required.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed immediately.
For a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for too long it might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument 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.
In certain situations professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news 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 prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues as soon as you notice them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could come back.
A glazier may also 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 when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.