Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by putting window repairs beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.
Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time it may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
For a more 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'll then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.
This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to correct this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems immediately you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out 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. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clean. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.