Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.

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 let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used only as a last option. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long it could be looking at dampness or even mould in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, Double Glazed Windows Repairs such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These 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 opening into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing windows repair glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can be easily solved. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It's best to select an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.