Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken upvc Window repairs, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area 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 are still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or Upvc window repairs mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is often possible to correct this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a upvc window repairs seal fails it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog may come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.