Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, replacements you'll need to remove the 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 in most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double glazed window repairs-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with 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 fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing 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 could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and replacements should only be only used as a last resort. 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 seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You'll save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In some cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your claim.

In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked 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 can be damaged by many elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually altered. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice when you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.