Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the Window Doctor to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

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

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to correct this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any issues, 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. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.

A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice if you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of upvc repairs near me.