Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

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

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for the 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 in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. 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 get an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed quickly.

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

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. 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 inspect for window repair any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air out, Window repair saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to repair and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this is often repaired. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're seeking the long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.