Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repair, from condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be only used as an option last resort. If the condensation is left for too long you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and double glazing airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.

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

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain situations, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems when you notice them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. It is always best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window doctor frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.