Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. 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 the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this is often fixed. Normally, this involves making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did complain.

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

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all 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, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.