Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then condenses 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 frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out 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.

You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as a last resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be handled by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain situations, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will help you prove your case.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create the seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to look visually disoriented. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer glass repairs near me defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could come back.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.