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 sliding. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease 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 fragments and the glass should break away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for too long you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also look for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

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

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into 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 provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues when you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.

In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can locate 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 verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

When a window repair near me seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually altered. Once 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 an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternately, handles you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.