Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs to double glazing, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double glaze repair-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to get a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if necessary.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing dampness or even mould within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this can often be solved. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues when you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair double glazed window specialist may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair door, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.