Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could need upvc repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It is typically caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. This can be avoided 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 call a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation is left for too long you might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon for example, 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 which is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to repair and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. It is always best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and Double glazing power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.