Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

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

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good shape.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall 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 wintertime. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or window repairs frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows when required.

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

As a quick fix for condensation, 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 you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazed window repairs-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and request 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 an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window repairs (read this post here) to appear visually distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.