Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed sash windows repair require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most 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. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. 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 available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It is typically caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and misted allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. 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 the process, they will also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down over time and create drafts between your two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues as soon as you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

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

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the number of repairs.