Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making 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.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using 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 stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be reused if they're intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating 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 simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken seal or companies a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your claim.

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

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of 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 tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and companies it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.