Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. double glazing Ascot will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and 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 remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can break down over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final alternative. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is often possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you notice them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. 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 to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and is a great option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.