Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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

Broken Panes

When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool 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 break up the glass fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can break down in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation is left for too long it may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out over time and create a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the right tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that it can be easily repaired. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your claim.

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

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely 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 placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice when you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of upvc repairs.