Why Everyone Is Talking About Double Glazed Windows Repairs Right Now
Why Everyone Is Talking About Double Glazed Windows Repairs Right Now
Blog Article
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if needed.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for a long time it may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues as soon as you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create the seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You door repair near me can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-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, like weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the number of repairs.