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. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

If your window or door 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 could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long you might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, Window Repair and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your home through 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 experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it is often repaired. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.

In some cases, a window repair - Main Page - specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs 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

Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog can come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and is a great option when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.