Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. It should dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and settles 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 running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get 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 as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation is left for a long time it could be looking at dampness or even mould in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During this process, they'll also examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

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

This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The specialist will use 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 can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. Usually, this means creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create a seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window repairs (0522224528 Ussoft post to a company blog) appear disfigured. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.