Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

If your door repair or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and window repair could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.

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

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used for window repair a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be only used as an option last option. If the condensation has been left for too long it could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out over time and create drafts between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your 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. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a straightforward issue to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from whom you bought your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured 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 maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the number of repairs.