There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repair including condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If more information is made of metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final 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.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll also examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down in time and create drafts between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to look visually disoriented. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog could return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice when you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.
