10 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for the re-glazing. 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 installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and 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 using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be only used as a last resort. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long it may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damages, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain situations, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be solved. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.


You should contact the company through which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems when you notice them. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create a seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long in the long run. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.