Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed upvc windows repairs may need repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle 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 using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can be damaged in time and window allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.

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

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be repaired. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is always best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.