Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a simple, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be used again if they're intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair double glazed windows or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed quickly.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down over time and create drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and windows repairs this will result in a solid and Windows Repairs airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You'll reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is always best to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure that they will offer a quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option if you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.