Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose 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 may be reused if still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases, a professional may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the Window doctor and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this is often fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.

In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as 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 how to repair them.

If a upvc window repairs seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can be re-applied.

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 great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. 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 amount of repairs.