Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good shape.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass. This then 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 improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.
A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be only used as an option last resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in the 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 the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby 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 create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your case.
A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create the seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not prevent moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, so the fog may come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.