Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A upvc window repair that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal 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 still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to determine the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should be used only as an option last option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long you might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

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

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your claim.

In some cases the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and won't stop the moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.