Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a simple, cheap fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before window repair Weybridge start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips 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 next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has been left for a long time it could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing the 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 is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your case.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation 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 important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.