Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues can be solved.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, cheap 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 broken, water can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for reflazing. 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 conventional compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. This is usually caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or window repair replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bills.

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

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

A professional could be able to seal 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 still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. It is usually a matter of making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair (go to the website) expert could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form the seal. However, this is generally only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. 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's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually disoriented. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken upvc window repairs seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.