15 Unexpected Facts About Double Glazed Windows Repairs You've Ne…

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require upvc repair (Learn More Here) for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold 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 the optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will break down over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. Many factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog can 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 when you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on 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 premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.