Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last alternative. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into 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 very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. Normally, this involves making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems as soon as you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.
In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.