Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, 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 issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window repairs is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed immediately.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation has left for a long time it might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a 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 will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push 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 more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. Many factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window repairs near me to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, window repair further reducing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers warranties 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 avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.