Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window replacement should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

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

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.

A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog could return.

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 best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.