Why Double Glazed Windows Repairs Is The Right Choice For You?
Why Double Glazed Windows Repairs Is The Right Choice For You?
Blog Article
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which 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 and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as the last resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In certain cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your complaint.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.
Remember 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. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning upvc window repair that fog may come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.