Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if not addressed promptly.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has been left for too long you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option if you're looking for the long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the here best quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.