Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a quick, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two 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 has blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window repairs near me and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by cracked or window Repair broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can be easily solved. Usually, this means making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and Window repair leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems immediately you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.