Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces, which should come away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double Glazed Windows repair-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or Double Glazed Windows Repair replace your windows when required.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and Double Glazed Windows Repair create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will provide a reliable protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for replacements repairs.