Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

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

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed Window Doctor to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple problem to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and tell them of any problems as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your claim.

A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long in the long run. 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 repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, so 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 moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, so the fog could be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for upvc repairs.