Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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 is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the 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, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.

For a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time, you could be looking at dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

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

Draughts

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

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. This typically involves creating a seal between the 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. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. 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 isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your Window Doctor and reduce the need for repairs.