Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, Double Glazing hinges and handles. This is a quick and cheap fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath 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. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be only used as a last resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window doctor airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can be easily repaired. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace 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. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as 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 essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.