Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a quick, cheap solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and glazing maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed promptly.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then 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 insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

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

This is a simple problem to repair and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'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 solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be repaired. Normally, this involves making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from which you bought your windows and let them know of any problems when you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or glazing any other inert gas is removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog could be re-created.

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 great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.