Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repair such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a simple temporary fix.

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, window repair scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window repair is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

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 an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still offer a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily repaired. Typically, this is done by creating a new 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 tell them of any problems immediately you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They can be damaged by various factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and could be a good option when you're seeking the long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.