Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged it loses its insulation properties and window repair could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as a last resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed 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 will save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight upvc window repairs near me. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. Normally, this involves making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

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

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.