Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a quick and affordable fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess 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 you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may break down in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, copyoa.com mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and create drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will provide a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to correct this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further reducing the glass window repair's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window repair near me seal with a brand new one. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog may be re-applied.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.