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Double Glazed Window Repair: 10 Things I'd Loved To Know Earlier
How to Repair a Double Glazed Window

Double glazing is a cost effective way to make your home more energy efficient and to increase its energy efficiency. It can have problems like condensation and draughts.

While replacement is the obvious answer to these issues but repairs are often a cheaper option. Let's look at a few of the most common options for double-glazed window repairs:

Broken Panes

The first step is removing the broken pane. Wear thick gloves and set up a cardboard box close by to collect any glass shards that fall while you work. Utilize a utility knife to cut the glazing around the windowpane that has been damaged, making sure to wear a mask and eye protection due to potential lead in the frame. Use pliers to remove any clips or nails that are securing the windowpane. Scrape away any old putty or glazing points after the glass has been removed. If needed, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.

After the old putty is gone, re-grout grooves and apply silicone caulk using a silicon caulking tool. It's a good idea examine the fit of the new window within its frame before applying the final caulking. Make sure the grooves in the frame are free of paint, rust, or gunk, and are not too narrow to fit the window.

Replace the sash with a wood molding to match the window frame. If the window frame has become damaged it is much easier and more economical to replace the entire unit instead of just one pane.

In the past double pane windows were constructed of two pieces of glass separated by an air spacer. They were then filled with air or an gas used to insulate. In recent years, manufacturers have shifted to insulated glass units (IGs) that are much more energy efficient and resistant to seal failure. In a double-pane windows with a failing IG water from the air outside gets into the window and condenses on the inside of the glass. This cycle eventually breaks down the insulating properties and leaves a film of haze on the glass.

A glass repair specialist can replace the entire IG or just the broken surface. This process can be expensive and time consuming, but is the only way to fix a defective seal that allows water to leak into the home. Purchasing high-quality windows from a reliable manufacturer and having them installed by an experienced technician can prevent further problems with the seals.

Misty Panes

The frame of the window holds two or three panes separated by air-filled spaces. The air, often filled with argon gas for greater energy efficiency, helps to keep warm air in and cold air out. Unfortunately, windows can start to break down and you'll see a hazy cloud that is forming between the panes of glass. It might seem like it's time to buy a new window, but you can't just replace the damaged pane.

In the majority of instances, a window that is misty suggests an issue with the seal between the two panes that comprise the glass. The condensation or mist indicates that moisture has entered and damaged the insulation of the double glazing. This is why it's important to pay attention to the maintenance of your windows and keep them clean.

Condensation that forms between the panes your windows can indicate that there's a high level of humidity in the house, so it's important to dehumidify and implement other measures to increase ventilation in the areas where this happens frequently. If the condensation is visible only on the one side of your window or between the panes, then you'll require having the seal replaced.

It is not possible to seal a double-glazed windows in order to bring back the original energy efficiency. If the seal is damaged the gap opens up cold air to enter your home, and warm air out. This reduces the insulation capacity of your home which will make it more expensive to heat.

upvc windows repairs near me offer a service where they drill holes in the exterior of your window and drain out the condensation, but this is only a short-term solution that is unlikely to last more than six months. You should not attempt to do this yourself because it can be extremely dangerous if you do not have the right tools or experience. Double-glazing professionals use specially designed equipment to safely eliminate the condensation and then install new air vents, which should help to prevent any future misting.

Frame Damage

Double glazing isn't unbreakable and even with the best of care, problems can arise. Some are minor and can be fixed but others are more serious and need to be replaced completely. The owner of the home should take this decision considering the advantages of double glazing, as well as the value it can bring to the property.

If you're having difficulty opening or closing your windows it could be due to misting on the glass or a problem with the frame. You should repair your windows as quickly as you can to prevent further damage to the double glazing.

The frames of double-glazed windows are designed to keep the glass panes in place and stop them from moving, however with time, the special packaging that helps this happens may wear down. This can cause one or both glass sheets to shift slightly and break the seal and causes misting. Mist can also form within the space between the panes that is insulating, again indicating that the seal has broken and it is now time to repair double glazing.

Another issue that is common is that windows have begun to sag over time and make it difficult to open and close them. This is usually fixed by adjusting the hinges or mechanisms. Be aware that a lot of double-glazed windows come with warranties. In this case you must contact the company from which you purchased your double glazing to find out what you can do.

You can repair double-glazed windows yourself, but it's better to consult with an expert for their expertise and experience. Professionals will be able to diagnose the problem and provide the proper double glazing repair quickly and effectively. You can also avoid voiding the warranty by not trying to fix your windows without having the right expertise.

Weather Damage


Double pane windows are immune to weather damage. However, if you live somewhere that is prone to icestorms, hail, high wind and torrential rain, your window frames and sealings can be seriously damaged. The best way to ensure your windows are in good shape is to regularly inspect them and repair minor scratches and chips as soon as you discover them.

Blown windows are among the most serious problems that you may encounter when you install double glazing. They happen when a gap forms between the two glass panes, which causes moisture and air to seep into your home. This is typically an indication of damage to the seals or an issue with the insulating material between your panes.

Condensation between the panes is yet another issue that double-glazed windows may cause. This is due to the warm air inside your house being warmer than the cooler air outside. The difference in temperatures forces the warmer air to expand, which could cause the window's seals to break or weaken over time.

Foggy windows are an issue that is common to double-glazed windows. This is a problem that can be fixed without replacing the IGU. This is usually a sign that the seals between your window's panes require resealing.

You will need to drill an opening between the window panes. You will need to drill a hole large enough to accommodate pipe cleaners or another long object that has cloth at the end. The cloth end is used to wash your windows down and remove any condensate that is left. This will help create a tighter seal and prevent future fogging.

This is only a temporary fix for foggy windows. When it rains or there's a sudden increase in humidity, the condensation will return. If you're looking for a permanent solution you'll have to replace the old IGU.

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