Double Glazing Window Repairs
Double window repairs made with glazing are typically required to fix a variety of problems. They can be caused by misting between the panes, draughts or difficult opening of doors and windows.
When you experience these problems it is important to contact the company you purchased windows from. Contact them by phone or email, and follow up with a written letter to ensure that the issue is quickly resolved.
Misted glass
The good news is that the majority of double glazing windows can be repaired rather than replaced - provided that the frame is in good condition and isn't completely damaged. The frame is not the main cause, but the seal between the glass panes. The misty windows result of moisture that causes condensation to form between the panes. This can be caused by a variety of factors including heat and humidity washing clothes and the general climate of your home.
Double-glazed windows are bonded with a hot-melt adhesive between the two glass panes and, sometimes, argon gas is added for additional thermal efficiency. This creates a barrier that stops cold air from entering your home and warm air from exiting. As time passes, this will be less effective, causing condensation to develop between the glass panes.
This can be extremely difficult. If the misting is too intense it may be time to replace the window. The reason for this is that the seal may have failed, allowing cold air to get in and warm air to escape. This can cause the energy efficiency of your window to drop dramatically, which will result in higher heating costs.
You can try to reduce the chance of a misty window forming by cleaning your double glazing with de-icing sprays or a specialist glass cleaner. This will eliminate any debris or dirt that could accumulate over time, which can lead to moisture leaking into the insulation gap. You can also upgrade to low-emissivity glass for additional protection, as this assists in preventing the transfer of heat through your windows.
It is recommended to contact an expert if you require repairs on your double-glazed window. Although you can try a DIY solution, this is generally not recommended, as it could be extremely dangerous without the right equipment. Avoid using chemicals to clean your double-glazed window seals. It is always better to hire a tradesperson who has been vetted by an online directory that is recognized like Checkatrade.
Draughts
Double glazing is a great insulator, but it is not 100% reliable. If it's not sealed properly it can allow draughts to enter and decrease the warmth of your home.
Fortunately, there are ways to solve this issue without having to replace the windows altogether. In fact, many double glazed window problems can be repaired with simple DIY life hacks. Here are a few frequent problems.
The most common problem with double glazing is a misty unit caused by condensation between the glass panes. This is caused by a leak in the seal, allowing condensation to build up on glass. This problem is usually simple to fix and is cheaper than replacing the entire window.
If you have a misty window, try wiping the glass with a damp cloth to clear the condensation. This will help restore the clarity of your window and help it re-seal. If the condensation persists you can request the company who supplied you with windows to repair the window. It's worth checking your guarantee to see if it covers replacement units.
Another method of fixing a draft is by putting stripping to prevent drafts at the bottom of your doors and windows. These can be rubber, foam or brush strips that are either glued or screwed to the frame. They will stop heat escaping through your door and cold air from entering it, and will save you money on your energy bills as well as making your home more comfortable.
You can also put in trickle vents in your double-glazed windows. They will let fresh air into the room when you need it but without the draughts. They are a great choice for homes that aren't quite as airtight as older ones, or for older houses that have lost their draught-proofing in the course of time.
The best double-glazed windows are made of argon-filled glass with thermal spacer bars. This keeps warm air in your home in winter and cold air out during summer. You'll save on your energy bills and they are ideal for a new bedroom, living room, or kitchen.
Smudged glass
Double-glazed windows are made by separating two glass panes by a sealed air pocket that is filled with non-toxic gas for insulation like argon or Krypton. The seal prevents the gas that insulates from leaving and also stops moisture and air from entering the gap. When the window starts to look cloudy it's an indication that the seal has failed and moist air is leaking into the window, where it is condensing and creating a hazy appearance.
If your window is getting clogged up, attempt to eliminate any moisture by using an anti-fog spray or solution. If this doesn't work it is crucial to call in an expert. They will have the appropriate tools to remove the window and clean both glass panes. Then, they'll have to seal the window so that moisture doesn't get in again.
Fogged windows are a major inconvenience, especially during cold weather. It can be difficult to open them and the condensation may cause damage to the frame and sash. If your double glazing system isn't properly insulated, it could cause even more problems as the cold air is able to seep into the frame and increase your energy costs.
If your windows are badly stained, it may be necessary to have them replaced instead of repaired. This can be costly, and the cost will vary based on the type of glass, frame, design, and other aspects. In general fiberglass windows are the most expensive, while vinyl and aluminum-framed windows are the cheapest.
Although it is possible to fix double glazing on your own, this isn't always a good idea and could be dangerous. The job can be time-consuming and requires specialized tools. It is normally much more efficient and safer to let an experienced professional complete the work for you. To help you find a suitable tradesman look through the reviews and ratings on TrustaTrader and see that all of our traders have been rigorously screened and checked prior to being certified. All you need to do is input your postcode and you'll be shown the best rated local companies that can complete the task for you.
Broken seals
The IGU is a double-glazed window made up of two or more parallel glass sheets. The IGU is filled up with air or gas, usually argon or Krypton. This is a second insulation and helps keep your home cool in the summer months and warm in winter. When the seals on windows break, the gas leaks and the window loses its benefit.
It is crucial to repair your IGU window as quickly as you can in order to avoid any further issues. If left unchecked, a broken seal can cause water damage, draughts and a reduction in your energy efficiency.
There are a variety of ways to fix a broken seal, based on its extent and your confidence with DIY projects. For minor issues, you could try using a putty knife to remove the cracked caulking around the window, then using a silicone sealant replace it. It's a good idea thoroughly clean the surface of the window and frame using isopropyl alcohol before applying the new sealant.
More serious issues may need replacement of the entire IGU, which may be a job that is best left to the experts. This is a much more complicated project and can be difficult to tackle by yourself, however in the event glass window repair that the damaged seal is creating draughts or allowing moisture into your home, it's worth a look.
Another alternative is to get the whole window replaced, which will typically be the most cost-effective way to fix damaged seals. This is the best option when you have very old windows or if they have been damaged by weather conditions.
If you recently had your windows put in, you should check to see if they're still covered under warranty. The manufacturer will most likely repair or replace windows for free. It's also a good idea when you can, to install double-pane windows. They will improve your home's insulation and save money in the long in the long run. This is particularly true if you have wood windows, which may warp and bow over time due to moisture.