Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, installed you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, installed scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts