Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window repairs is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with 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 often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has left for a long time it could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll examine for window repair any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it is often repaired. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double glazing repairs-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. 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 decrease the need for repairs.