Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, window repair Uxbridge these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get a professional to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged 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 promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be used as the last option. If the condensation has been left for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down over time and cause a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to appear visually altered. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this is 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, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog may come back.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.