Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away 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, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for window repair a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, window repair then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent 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 resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems when you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure that they will offer a quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.