Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window doctor near me that has been broken and cutting 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 prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces, which should come away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may break down over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damages or growth of mould, double glazing mildew or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have 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 the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it by hand. These tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

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

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and tell them of any problems as soon as you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your claim.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by many factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.