Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be used as an option last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. In the process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out in time and create drafts between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be 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. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.