Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and windows repairs maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If the condensation has been left for a long time it may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain situations, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a cheaper solution 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. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues as soon as you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazing window repairs-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're seeking the long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. Alternately, Windows Repairs you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.