Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need upvc repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as needed.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may break down in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window replacement near me to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should only be used only as the last option. If the condensation is left for a long time, you could be looking at dampness or even mould within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gaps and handles pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient 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 a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very 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 into position and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In some cases an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to resolve this issue. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your complaint.

In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. It is always best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.