Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair upvc windows for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. The majority of these issues are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed sash windows repair may experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by too much moisture 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. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may become degraded in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for installed a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this is often fixed. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems immediately you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and make an airtight seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop the moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find 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 have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust 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 can be damaged by many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.