Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a quick, cheap solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, window repair as well as mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent 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.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It is typically caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed quickly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and Window Repair clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damages, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and 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 allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools have an edge 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 hole into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this is often repaired. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows repairs near me to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.