Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off quite 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 metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, Misted 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 using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right 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 usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain 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 a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazed window repairs glazing. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can be easily repaired. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes and create fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog could come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.