Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be resolved.If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and cheap fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation is left for a long time it could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an 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 indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
In some cases an expert might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. 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 issues immediately you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.
In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to be able to do it. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. 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 have been verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
If 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 look visually disoriented. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.
