There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you’ll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It’s worth lubricating this tool’s cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool’s ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier’s facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier’s points could be re-used if they’re still intact.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier’s compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation has been left for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They’ll remove the affected pane of glass, Double Glazed Windows Repairs then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they’ll also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can’t be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In certain cases, a professional may be able to ‘reseal’ your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can often be solved. Usually, this means creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they’ve received your notification. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and won’t stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair upvc windows by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be certain that they will provide top-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 a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. It’s a common problem, and can cause the window to appear visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window repair., thereby decreasing the glass’s insulation properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, so the fog can be re-created.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and is a great option when you’re seeking an option that lasts for a long time. However, it’s best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be assured that you’ll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.