Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then condenses 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 lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to get an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if necessary.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window doctor is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation is left for too long it may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out in time and create 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. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

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

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations, a professional might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing (read this blog article from Chumphonburihos) and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues when you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your complaint.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. 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 allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

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

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.