Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, water can leak between them causing condensation or [empty] mildew, or mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow reflazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this 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 problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed immediately.

You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should only be only used as a last 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.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create drafts between your two panes. It is a simple fix 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 money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals 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 come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing window repair glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the repairing glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In certain situations the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. It is best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double Glazed windows repair glazing repair. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to lock repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing 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 maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.