Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.
The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may break down in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be used only as an option last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems when you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.
In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually distorted. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. 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 the window and reduce the amount of repairs.