Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repair such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and UPVC Window Repairs Near Me making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and create drafts between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common 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 thing is that this is often repaired. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, window repair and leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. 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.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing 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 quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good option if you're looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.