Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, cheap fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's 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 still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. window repairs Maidstone should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can often be fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any problems when you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to be able to do it. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.