Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can become degraded 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 is not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should be used as an option last resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damages, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down over time and create drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
In certain cases an expert could 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 cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this is often fixed. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
In some cases the window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window repairs window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog may come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if 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 covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.