How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

Typically double glazing comes with a guarantee of 10 or 20 years. If your double-glazed windows show signs of aging, you may be eligible for them to be fixed under warranty.

Double glazed window repair involves re-sealing your existing glass unit. The seal isn't working properly in the event that you see misting.

Glass that is damaged

Double pane windows depend on an airtight seal in order to function correctly. The most typical sign that a seal may be failing is condensation forming between the glass plates. Condensation that forms between glass plates is not a major problem and can be corrected however it is a sign that your glazing unit requires replacement. If you have an older double-glazed window, it could require replacing both the glass and the frame. If the frame is in good condition however, you can typically save money by replacing just the glazing.

Glass is brittle and it's not uncommon for double-pane windows that develop cracks over time. Unless the cracks are caused by mechanical damage or an unusual impact, it's possible to repair these cracks using epoxy and a tiny amount of elbow grease. Start by cleaning over the cracked area with a wet cotton rag and then apply epoxy to the crack, following the instructions of the manufacturer. Allow the epoxy to fully dry before sanding and painting over the repaired area.

A simple strip of masking tape can also be used to stop a crack from spreading. One strip of tape placed on both sides of the damaged area should be enough to stop superficial cracks, like stress cracks caused by low temperatures, from getting worse. If you notice deeper cracks in your glass that are already present, it's recommended to consult an expert to repair the damage.

It's risky and difficult to replace a single pane of double-paned windows. Double-paned windows are constructed as a complete unit and sealed with inert gas in the factory. It is therefore impossible to remove only the glass without damaging the window. If you're planning to replace glass in your double pane windows, ensure that you use a quality brand that is backed by a strong warranty.

You can also use newspaper to shield the window frame before you remove the sash or replace any broken glass. This will shield yourself from sharp shards that could fall on the way and also help to avoid any damage to the trim of your home or molding.

Condensation Build-Up

The good part is that condensation occurring between window panes is normal. This is caused by the difference in temperatures and humidity of the air. The water vapour in air condenses when it comes into contact with cold, inaccessible surfaces like windows. This is usually a good thing, especially in winter as it can help prevent heat loss.

If your windows appear cloudy and have a layer of water on them, you must contact a professional glazier. This is an indication that the seal between the two panes has begun to degrade and allows moisture to enter the window.

You can try to stop this by using a dehumidifier or a fan, enhancing ventilation or using a deicing agent. There are also companies that can remove excess moisture from double-glazed windows through drilling into the frame and injecting desiccant. This requires removing the sealed unit from the frame and Window repair then cleaning every glass pane before refilling the desiccant. This is typically more expensive, however it is worth checking whether the company you use is fully insured and is registered with FENSA.

Remember that tampering your double-glazed windows could invalidate any warranties. If you have a guarantee on your windows, it's best to let the company know of any issues that arise, as they will be responsible for replacing units under warranty. Also, any damage caused by tampering will most likely not be covered under your guarantee either so it is recommended to seek out expert advice prior to trying any DIY fixes. This is especially relevant for older units since they are sometimes more susceptible to failure. If this happens, it's probably best to replace the whole glass panel. The windows will then be brand new that will last for many years.

Scratches

Double-glazed windows are not immune to scratches. This could be the result of environmental conditions or can even be caused by the way the window was installed.

Many of these scratches are minor and can be easily fixed with a few simple solutions. If you can feel the scratches on your windows using your fingernail, or when they are very deep, it is recommended to seek out an expert to restore the glass to its original state.

Superficial scratches are caused by objects scraping against the glass surface of your windows such as tree branches, pet claws and abrasive materials used when cleaning. These scratches are usually removed by using non-abrasive products such as iron oxide or cerium dioxide polishes. You'll have to apply these products until the scratch disappears.

Scratches can also happen when you sand wood trim around your windows. They can also occur in the course of construction. These scratches can be difficult to fix. However, a mix of baking soda and water will help smooth out the surface that has been buffed and remove any remaining scratch.

For more severe scratches, you can use polish for metal to smooth the area and remove them. Add a small amount the product to a microfibre ball or cotton cloth and gently rub the affected area in a circular motion. Avoid applying excessive pressure, since this could cause damage to the window. After the area has been smoothed out then use a moist cloth to remove any remaining polish residue.

If you've got a deep scratch that you just can't seem to remove, consider buying a special non-abrasive glass polish. This can be bought at any DIY store and should be applied in accordance with the instructions on the product packaging. You can also use nail polish to cover up any superficial scratches on the glass of your window. Make sure that the nail polish is clear and that it is only applied to the scuffed area of your window.

Haze

The appearance of fog in your double-pane window is a sign that the airtight seal between the two glass panes has been damaged. This needs to be fixed as soon as possible to ensure that moisture and dirt do not build up between the glass panes. This can cause damage to the glass and cause the glass's transparency being reduced.

There are many solutions to fix haze in your double pane windows. One option is to use a defogging spray. However, this is only an interim solution. If you're looking for a long-lasting solution, you'll need to seek out a professional glazing company who can fix the issue and replace the gaskets if necessary.

Another method to eliminate haze in double glazed windows is to drill tiny holes into the frame of the window, using a carbide-tipped drill. You can then insert a desiccate bag into these holes, and wash the upvc window repair using rubbing alcohol. The water will help to remove the haze from the window and wash it.

To avoid fogging, you must keep your windows clean and maintained by cleaning them on a regular basis. This will keep the double panes clean and allow you to take in the stunning view of your garden or home. In addition, ensuring that your home is well ventilated will also be beneficial. This will ensure that any condensation gets sucked away, rather than being allowed to settle and reseal the window.

In addition to regular maintenance and cleaning, you should also make sure that your windows are installed. The installation of your windows should be handled by a reputable glazing company. This will ensure that the seals and gaskets are installed properly, and fit securely. It's also recommended to get your windows repaired as quickly as you can, before they start to show signs of wear and tear. This will save you from costly double pane window repairs.

In general, double-glazed windows that have insulation are built to last for around 20 years. They are designed to withstand different weather conditions such as very cold temperatures, heat, humidity and repeated openings and closings. However, it's important to remember that the typical lifespan of double glazed windows may be reduced by inadequate installation or defective materials.