Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window repairs is wooden the glazier's points could be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. 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. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and Window Repair colder air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, window repair creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any problems immediately you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form the seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and 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. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog may be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.