Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repair such as condensation between panes, to dropping or
near sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a
window replacement pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes,
near 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 that you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will become degraded over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has left for a long time you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.
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 typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain situations professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can often be fixed. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.
A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.
When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog could return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution.