Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you begin, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's evidence 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 shape.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to get an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be used as an option last resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can be easily solved. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
Contact the company from which you bought your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you discover them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is only temporary and won't stop website moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually disoriented. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.