Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues are fixable.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). 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. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house 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 using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be used as the last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your claim.
In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could be re-applied.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.
