Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, 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 pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It is typically caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to 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 replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple issue to repair and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. 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 into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to correct this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues when you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost 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 might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog may come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice if you're looking for the long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.