Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window doctor pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water 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 the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. 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 the glass should break away quickly.

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

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used only as a last option. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damages, mildew or mould growth and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to fix this problem. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. 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 better to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure that they will offer a quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the 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 maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.