Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

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

As 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 the condensation is allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

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

double glazed window repairs near me glazing that is misted may be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your room via 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 specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can often be solved. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, double Glazed window repairs near me draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and tell them of any problems as soon as you notice them. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations the upvc window repair repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be 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 only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double glazed window repairs near me glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.