Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
The remaining frame must be prepared to allow 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 glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last option. If the condensation is left for a long time you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
As a 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 gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes here that is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a simple problem to repair and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is 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 seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. 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 condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any problems immediately you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your claim.
In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and experience required to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could come back.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.