Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, cheap fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window repair is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It is typically caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could lead to 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 eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has been left for too long it may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and Window Repair then pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out in time and create drafts between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the right tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or window repair putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is recommended 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 them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot 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 solution and is a good option if you're looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.