7 Useful Tips For Making The Greatest Use Of Your Double Glazed Window…

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a quick and cheap solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, water can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed promptly.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down in time and create drafts between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted repairing double glazed windows glazing is a common issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to do so. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazed Windows repair repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by an experienced glazier. 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 remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't 100% reliable and Double Glazed windows repair cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.