Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues are fixable.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off 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. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. Reinstall see page , 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, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out 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 the warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed 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 pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
In some cases an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered 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 it is often solved. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create the seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not stop 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 attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.
If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further 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 completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.
