Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues are fixable.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken, 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 in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you’ll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It’s recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier’s pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there’s any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier’s gilder’s points can be used again if they’re in good condition.
You’ll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier’s compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. 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 common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It’s typically caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
It’s also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing (Check Out Qooh) can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They’ll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they’ll check for damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows’ by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems immediately you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they’ve received your notice. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make the seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren’t sure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It’s crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond upvc repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It’s best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.
