The Lesser-Known Benefits Of Double Glazed Windows Repairs
The Lesser-Known Benefits Of Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Blog Article
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of 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 any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Utilizing 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 in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when necessary.
It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be used only as the last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In some cases, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to correct this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
Contact the company through which you bought your windows and tell them of any problems when you spot them. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your complaint.
In certain situations an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is always best to seek help from a professional 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 into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy, window and door repairs so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.