Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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

Broken Panes

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

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation is left for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

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. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often repaired. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company through which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

In some cases an expert in window replacement near me repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not stop the moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure 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 thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.