Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home and Double glazing the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances the window upvc repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.