Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues are fixable.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass has been 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 may be reused if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal will be damaged 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.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution 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 dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll check for home damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass 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 that can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the upvc window repairs near me and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases the window repair near me repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.