Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be handled by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain situations, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. Normally, this involves making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can cause the upvc window repairs appear to be distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the Window Doctor frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog can come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.