Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to contact an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will be damaged in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

For 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 final option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create drafts between the 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 can reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two glass panes 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, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems as soon as you spot them. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

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

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been 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 a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.