Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the root 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, Learn Even more, can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as a last resort. If the condensation is left for too long it could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, double glazing mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.

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

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

Contact the company from whom you bought your windows and inform them of any issues when you discover them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.

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

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to repair them.

When a window doctor near me seal breaks it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog could be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.