Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by too many levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal can be damaged over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed promptly.

You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain situations professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It could be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this is often fixed. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to 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 cases, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust that click here they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually distorted. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.