Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require 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 to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a quick and cheap solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation persists it is recommended to 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. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may be damaged over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.
Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long you might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bill.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form the seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually disoriented. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could be re-applied.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. double glazing repairs Leyton is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.