Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

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Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

The remaining frame must be prepared for the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may 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 it is not addressed quickly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you can 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 has been left for too long it may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or handles mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is often possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They can be damaged by many factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.