Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window repairs near me to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane 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 shape.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal may break down over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation is left for a long time, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or 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 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 inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

If you discover 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 have received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will help you prove your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. It is recommended to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window repair seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.