Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs such as condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and repair windows or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.

You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last resort. If the condensation is left for too long you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During this process, they'll also examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In some cases, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair near repair windows professional could drill a hole between your upvc windows repair to eliminate moisture and create a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

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

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.