There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create 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. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. It should dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to 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. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed promptly.
As a quick fix for 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 alternative. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can be easily solved. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure that they will offer a high-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, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.