How to Repair Double Glazing Windows

If you have double glazing it is possible that you will encounter problems with the gaskets, hinges, and handles. It is possible to solve these issues without replacing the entire window, thereby saving time and money.

One common issue is the accumulation of condensation in the space between the two panes of glass. This is usually an indication that the window has become faulty and requires attention.

1. Broken Panes

A damaged double pane window is a serious issue and can expose your home to the elements. But, it's not always necessary to replace the entire window sash to fix this issue. Double pane windows can be repaired with a special adhesive placed inside the cracks.

This short-term repair option is usually used to prevent superficial cracks (such as stress cracks) from becoming worse and can happen when the temperature changes cause your glass to expand and contract. In the event that the glass has broken, it may be necessary to completely remove the broken window and replace it.

The seals between the two panes can wear out or break, causing misting and condensation on windows. Most often, these issues result from moisture that is trapped between the two glass panes or seeps through the window frame into the wall. Whatever the cause water, it is bad news for your double glazed windows because it can cause mold growth and water damage that can be costly to deal with.

To reduce the misting or condensation problem under control, you should first try wiping your double glazed windows with cold water. This can help to temporarily fix the issue, especially in the case of warm and humid. You can also consider using a dehumidifier in the area in which your double-glazed windows are located which is particularly useful during the summer.

If the problem persists an expert in double glazing can come to your home and clean out the space between your panes of glass. A tool can be used to draw a score line around the perimeter of the windows, which allows you to cut the glass using a glass cutter. After this, remove all glazing points from the window opening. This should be done while the sash is still in place, however it is possible to work on a flat surface like a table.

2. Seals

The window seal is an essential element of double glazing. It assists in keeping your home secure, energy efficient, and draught free. The seal is situated at the outer edge of uPVC frames and creates an airtight seal within the space between the two panes of glass. This is a key part of the insulative effect the double glazing provides and any issues or failure to the seals will significantly reduce this benefit.

If your seals aren't doing their job, the result will be condensation between the panes. This isn't just ugly but can also lead to dampness and mould within the home. It can cause damage to walls, furniture, floorboards and create serious health issues for those with respiratory conditions like asthma.

The good news is that the majority of double glazing manufacturers will offer a service to repair windows without replacing the entire unit. This isn't just cheaper, but it can be a quicker and greener option. There are also DIY alternatives, like caulking to stop leaks and moisture intrusion, or self-adhesive seals that are applied directly at the junction of the window sash with the frame.

In most instances, the easiest and most effective way to deal with damaged window seals is to contact a professional. They'll be able to replace the window seal to stop the ingress of air and moisture that can cause expensive damage and aid in keeping your home energy efficient.

Check the warranty period on your double glazing. It usually ranges between 10 to 20 years. This can save you money in the event that seals are broken and the windows need to be replaced. Some installers may even drill holes into misted double glazing and draw out the moisture in order to create a new seal to prevent it from misting again in the future. This is only temporary, and a plug has to be installed to seal the hole.

3. Locking Mechanisms

Double-glazed windows use air gaps between the glass panes for insulation against the changing temperature outside and also to keep warm in the home. This type of window is also known as an IGU or insulated glass unit (IGU). These windows can save you money on heating costs by reducing the energy consumption. However, they are not impervious to damage and some issues may occur that require double-glazing repairs.

Fortunately, the majority of these are relatively easy to fix and cost less than replacing the entire window. Contacting a company that offers double glazing repair can ensure that the work is done correctly and without any hassle. These companies will often provide a free estimate to let you evaluate the costs and quality of their work.

Check the warranty that came along with the double-glazed window. It usually covers the costs of a repair. This is a common feature of double glazing and typically lasts for 10 to 20 years, however some companies offer lifetime guarantees.

If you are unable to open your double glazed window or it appears that there is mist between the panes then this could be because the seal has blown. This could occur if the frame of the window replacement moves in a slight manner, or when the packing that holds the glass sheets in place wears out with time.

You can repair double-glazed windows yourself, but it's usually more cost-effective to hire a professional. Always adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer and employ the right tools. You also risk voiding any warranty if trying to remove the window glass by yourself. You could end up paying more than if the business that purchased the windows from called you.

Once the broken pane is removed, you can put it back with plastic spacers, making sure that it fits into the frame. Then, you can add any uPVC beading. Then you can put in the gasket with a new seal and secure the window.

4. Weatherproofing

There are solutions to fix double glazing windows that are hard to open, or have become sagging. For instance, you could try oiling the hinges, mechanisms or handles to see if this can help. Another thing that you can do is to replace the gaskets, which will help to improve the performance of your windows, and also stop them letting in draughts and cold air. They can be purchased at a hardware store or online, and they are quite easy to install. You can seek out an expert if you don't want to do it yourself.

Condensation between window panes is a different issue which can be easily solved. It is usually caused by a broken seal that allows moisture to get in the gap between the glass panes. This could cause the glass to fog up, which is both ugly and ineffective.

Anyone with a little DIY experience can easily swap out gaskets. It is crucial to make sure that you use a gasket sealer, which will give you a strong seal and reduce energy bills. You can also apply a calk in order to fill in any cracks. This will give your windows an additional boost of weatherproofing.

The seals may also fail on double-glazed windows. This can be caused by painting the windows near them or renovation work on the property, or general wear and tear. If you discover that your double-glazed windows have become misted, it is important to fix them as soon as you can.

Double-glazed windows are an excellent addition to your home, providing you with windows that are energy efficient and safe that keep the cold out and the heat in. There are instances when replacing a double glazed window is the best choice. This could include completely broken panes, extensive decay and frames that are no longer suitable for double glazing units.