There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should be removed relatively quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used only as the last option. If the condensation has left for too long it might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.
This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the right tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to correct this issue. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues when you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.
In some instances, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. It is best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.