How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

Double glazing is a great addition for any home. It can improve energy efficiency and comfort. However, they can have issues at times.

The cost of having your double-glazed windows repaired can save you money and improve their insulation properties. A professional can fix condensation and misting in your windows by drilling holes into the unit.

1. Broken Glass

Cracks in double-pane windows can happen to anyone. It could be a pebble that flew out of your lawnmower or a coffee table that fell on the glass-topped table. It's good to know that these cracks can be repaired by experts. Even the most severe cracks that run across the length of your window are often repaired with a bit of strong-hold tape, and a few easy steps.

First clean the area around the crack with water and soap to get rid of any dirt or grime. Place a stripe of clear tape along both sides of the glass. This should be sufficient to prevent cracks on the surface from getting worse. For deeper cracks, you might need to extend the tape a couple of inches beyond the crack on both ends. For a stronger repair timber windows you may require epoxy. Follow the instructions on the label to mix it and apply it to the crack. After the epoxy has dried, it should be as strong as new window glass.

Even though it's best to avoid windows that are cracked, environmental factors and manufacturing flaws can cause them to crack or lose the seal. It is also essential to buy double-pane windows of the highest grade from a reputable firm. They'll provide a warranty on their products and guarantee them for 15 to 20 years following installation. This can be helpful in the future with repairs and replacements.

If your window is broken, it's important to have it replaced as soon as possible before the cracks get worse. A double pane window will give you more insulation from cold and heat, and can help you save money on your energy bills.

It's important to remember that any broken window glass can be dangerous. It's always an excellent idea to speak with experts in glazing prior to undertaking any repairs, because they will have the necessary equipment to do the job safely. Don't be shy in asking for assistance. There are professionals who can help you with your repairs and replacements, and will give you tips on preventing double pane windows from breaking in the future.

2. Condensation

A common double glazing repair issue is condensation between the panes of your windows. This is a sign the seal has failed between the two glass panes and is no longer an airtight insulation which allows heat to escape.

This problem is more common in the newer double glazing with a plastic frame than the older models with aluminium frames and is especially problematic when the weather is cold and aluminium damp. It is usually due to too much humidity in the air, or a lack of circulation. Moisture also tends to condense on cold surfaces, like the inside of of windows.

As such, aluminium it isn't easy to stop condensation from your double-glazed windows, especially as the UK is known for its wet climate. However, you can minimize this issue by ensuring that your rooms are properly ventilated and keeping the curtains or blinds opened to let fresh air to enter. Additionally, wiping down your windows and door surfaces often will help to remove moisture.

If you are worried about the presence of condensation inside your double-glazed windows it is best to seek professional advice. You should not attempt to fix this problem by yourself, as any modification to the window could invalidate any warranty offered. Many reputable window manufacturers will be able to supply and install new sealed units, so you can be assured that your window is once again performing just as it is supposed to.

If the condensation is present only in one or two windows, you are able to repair this by replacing the unit. This is much less expensive than a full replacement and will allow you to maintain the efficiency of your double glazed windows. It is recommended to find an experienced contractor on Checkatrade. These contractors have been independently vetted to ensure that they do top-quality work. They will either replace the entire unit or install vents in each hole to allow for airflow. They may also be able give you a guarantee for the work that they do.

3. Shrinkage

Double glazing shrinks when the weather gets cold. This puts pressure on the rubber seals that hold your window panes in place. This can cause them to break, leading to their deterioration and eventually lose their effectiveness. This can cause misting, draughts and water infiltration. The solution is to seal your windows.

As time passes the uPVC frames can also fade. A simple clean with a UPVC cleaner can make a difference but it's important to remember that this could be an indication of a bigger problem. If the discoloration is very deep, this could indicate that your frames are damaged and require replacement.

A common cause of double-glazed doors or window becoming difficult to open is that the hinges are becoming stiff or broken. It is crucial to contact a professional to fix a problem if you find the door or window difficult to open. A window or a door that isn't shut properly could cause draughts, and also affect your home's energy efficiency. A broken lock can be a security risk and invalidate your insurance policy.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be costly, but you should fix any issues as soon as you are you notice them. Untreated issues can damage double glazing and increase the risk of damp and mold. Mold and damp can cause serious damage to your home as well as a health risk for your family. Moisture in double-glazed windows can cause rust and condensation which can cause to the growth of mould and decrease their life span. Regularly inspecting your double glazed windows is the best way to prevent any issues in the future. Checkatrade can help you find a trustworthy, qualified tradesperson to do any repairs. We can provide you with a list of local experts who can complete the required double glazing repairs. Enter your postcode to get an instant list.

4. Leaks

Contact a professional if you notice water getting into your double-glazed windows. It could be due to an unsound seal, a cracked window pane, or an issue with your drainage system. If not addressed, a small leak can turn into a big problem that can cause damp and even mould.

A professional will employ caulking guns to apply a new layer of sealant. Before applying the new sealant, you'll have to remove the previous layer and thoroughly clean the gap. You'll want to make sure that the new sealant is able to fill the entire gap. This will ensure that your windows are properly sealed.

Double-glazed windows are often covered by a guarantee. You need to know how long the warranty lasts and what it covers. Certain warranties only cover hardware for a period of 10 or 20 year however, some warranties offer a lifetime warranty. If you encounter any issues with your double-glazed windows, contact the company that installed them as quickly as possible. Write everything down. This will make it much easier to claim an exchange or refund if necessary.

Condensation between the two glass panes is a different issue with double glazing. It is usually caused by a break in the seals that allows heat from the outside to escape through the gap between the glass sheets. When warm air comes into contact with the cold glass, it forms a condensation. This can often be resolved by using a dampened cloth with white vinegar or water.

If the condensation is particularly severe or persists, it may be an indication that the glass has an issue. In this scenario it is likely that a replacement window sash repairs will be needed.