Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms 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 and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass sash window repair is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down in time and create drafts between the two panes. It is 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 outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and let them know of any issues when you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In some cases the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and Windows Repairs create the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.