Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and cheap solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then forms 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 improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. In the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down in time and create drafts between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into 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 could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and inform them of any issues as soon as you discover them. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some cases the window replacement repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix 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 important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and experience required to do so. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.