There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to get an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when needed.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.
You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should only be only used as the last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In some cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some cases an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop the return of moisture. It may 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 adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. window repairs near me is best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so 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. Many factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could be re-applied.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.
