Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Many of these issues can be solved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew 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.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear down over time and cause drafts between your 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 once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this is often solved. Usually, this means making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
Contact the company from whom you bought your windows and tell them of any issues immediately you notice them. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In certain situations the window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is best to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.
When a window seal fails it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is more info the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.