Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point 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 points can be reused if they're still intact.

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

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the upvc window repairs. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation has been left for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is a simple 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 reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, pane a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice when you're looking for the long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.