Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazing near me-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, water can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if required.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be used as an option last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create 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 which cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases, a professional could 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-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to correct this issue. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your case.

In certain situations an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog can come back.

A glazier is also able to 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 when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will produce the best results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.