Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in 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 is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation is left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, home which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window repairs, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often solved. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a upvc window repair near me seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, home this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. It's best to select an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.