double glazing repair Hackney Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets 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 in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may break down over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be only used as the last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.