Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

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

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be only used as an option last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out over time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor window repair problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small gap in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazed window repairs-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often repaired. It is usually a matter of making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems immediately you notice them. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

In certain situations an expert in window repair (read this post from Dermandar) will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, window repair it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the upvc window repair near me and cut down the number of repairs.