Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.

If your window or door 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 pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed immediately.

Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be only used as the last option. If the condensation has been left for blown too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During this process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is 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, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and will provide a reliable protection against draughts for double glazed window repairs near me glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to fix this problem. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues immediately you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your case.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and create the seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

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

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually disoriented. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. 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 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and is a great option when you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.