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 sliding. Most of these problems are fixable.
If your
window replacement or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved 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.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal 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 glazing and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted
double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate 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 fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and
Double glazing the best way to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog could return.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered.