Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists, you should call a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if not addressed promptly.
You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside 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 been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
This is a simple problem to repair and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
In some cases, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is often possible to fix this problem. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any problems when you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's 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 into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog can come back.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.