Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damages, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and won't stop the moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window repair near me and cut down the amount of repairs.