Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues can be solved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. 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. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get a professional to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows if needed.
It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep 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 blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can be easily solved. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and won't stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It's best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.