Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs including condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. 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're still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames 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 call a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

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

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll also examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and double glazing West Bromwich know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing Ruislip glazing is a typical issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your case.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazing West Bromwich-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option when you're seeking the long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.