Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, double glazing handles, and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, Double Glazing and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is 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 constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. This is usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

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 become degraded over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time you might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain cases, a professional could 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 cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In some cases, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. Once 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 a a new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog may return.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option when you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have 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 high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.