Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repair such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window is broken it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and 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. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be reused if they're intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and window repair enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation is left for a long time you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double glazed window repairs near me-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing 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. It is possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is best to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.