Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in an expert to determine the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get 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, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If the condensation is left for too long you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your claim.

In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could be re-applied.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.