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

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be solved.


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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. window repairs will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which forms 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 often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows when needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it may be experiencing dampness or even mould within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing 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 out. You'll save 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 comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues as soon as you notice them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.

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