Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal 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 points can be reused if they're intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows as 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 will become degraded over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last resort. If the condensation is left for too long you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating 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 cannot be removed.
This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain cases an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this is often repaired. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems as soon as you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your case.
A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form the seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and won't stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. double glazing Whitstable have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a high-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, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms 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 common problem that can also make the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could be re-created.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.