Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick, cheap fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
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 let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should only be used only as a last option. If the condensation has left for a long time, you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create drafts between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your space through 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 windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate 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 screened and you can be sure they will provide a 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, including the weather, age, and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.