Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to get a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows when necessary.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should only be used as a last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time, you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll also examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in 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 reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.
In some cases, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not prevent the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and is a great option when you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.