Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your window or door 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 is broken it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the upvc window repairs and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and window repair should only be used only as the last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

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

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you discover any problems, 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 disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.

In some instances an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on them to provide a high-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 a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

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

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.