Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs such as condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or glazing sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a simple, cheap fix.

Broken Panes

When a window repairs pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to contact an expert to determine the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down over time and create drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

This is a simple issue to repair, glazing and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.

In certain situations an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is generally only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the upvc window repair near me to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could come back.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.