Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow reflazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor misted fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should be used only as the last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time you might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out over time and create drafts between your two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that 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 a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. 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. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find 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 are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

When a upvc window repairs seal fails it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog can come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.