Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs including condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues are fixable.

If your door or window doctor near me is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and 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. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

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

The remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows when necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform 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 a draft between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems immediately you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your message. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate 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 screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog can be re-applied.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.