5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It is typically caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could 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 dealt with promptly 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 only be used as a final alternative. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain situations professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can often be solved. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your case.

A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make a seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop the moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by upvc window repairs seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.