A Guide To Double Glazed Windows Repairs In 2023

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of 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 there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then forms 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 enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain cases professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this is often repaired. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and tell them of any problems as soon as you spot them. 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, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing window repair glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's important to know what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond doors repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.