Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double glazing repair-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor double glazing fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. 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 needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as a last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment 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 insulated glass can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog may be re-applied.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.