5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window repairs should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.

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

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

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 gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not prevent the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.