Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, Window Repair lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, Repairs to uPVC Windows you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should only be used only as an option last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blown seals. 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, for example argon, 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 can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and window repairs then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it 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 cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually altered. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog could return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're seeking 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. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.