10 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Tricks Experts Recommend Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be used again if they're in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be addressed by a professional.


For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed 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, which is not able to be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues when you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form the seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not prevent moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into 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

Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear to be distorted. If window repairs near me is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice if you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.