There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repair, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a glaziers compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when required.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be used as the last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved 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 save money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
This is a simple problem to fix and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements, and will provide a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this is often fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.
Contact the company through which you bought your windows and tell them of any problems immediately you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.
In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. window repairs near me or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.
