Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of 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. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and they should fall away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If window repairs persists, you should call a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed promptly.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by an expert.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear down in time and create drafts between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option if you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be assured that your investment will produce the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.