Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and can create draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window replacement is made 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. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

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

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be handled by an expert.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down over time and create drafts between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the right tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can be easily solved. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

In some instances, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window replacement. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and double glazing vetted and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and double glazing following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.