Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.
The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be only used as an option last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this is often fixed. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
Contact the company from whom you bought your windows and tell them of any issues immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate 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 thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog can be re-created.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.