Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues are fixable.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window Doctor pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, window Doctor mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for reflazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be only used as the last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down in time and create drafts between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be solved. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your claim.

In some cases, a window upvc repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop the moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually disoriented. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can upvc repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great choice if you are looking for a 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 means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the number of repairs.