Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

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Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath 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. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may become degraded over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has been left for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it is often fixed. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and experience required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog could return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.