Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, 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 a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate 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 running dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could 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 it is not addressed quickly.

You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has been left for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During this process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations, a professional might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your message. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your case.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. It is best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the upvc window repairs near me, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.