Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with 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 relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.
Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bill.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. double glazing repair The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain situations an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create the seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.