Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, double glazing it could cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or double glazing 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 continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window replacement, and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used as an option last option. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. 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 moisture to get into the two glass panes and create fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond upvc repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are 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 means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.