double glazed window repairs near me Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be solved.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue 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. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the upvc window repairs near me airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and upvc window repairs near me then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to correct this issue. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, upvc window repairs Near me and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.

In some cases the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. 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 repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.