Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, cheap fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow reflazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows when needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon 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 which can't be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
Contact the company from which you bought your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure that they will offer a quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.
If window repairs is damaged, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually altered. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a a new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good option if you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.
