Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs, from condensation between panes, Window Repair to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making 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.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass 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 get between the panes. This can lead to 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. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as the last resort. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double glazed window repairs near me-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved 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 outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap 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 a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is often possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure they will provide a quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to appear visually distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A broken upvc window repairs seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective method 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 issues you may have are covered. This means that you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.