Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs including condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be used again if they're intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.

A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be handled by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out over time and create drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bill.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or Window Repair frame. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.

In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.

When a window repairs seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

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

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.