Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good shape.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

This is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the proper tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window repairs and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can 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. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems immediately you notice them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and make an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of 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 what to do to fix them.

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

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be costly and Window Repairs might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the upvc window repairs frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog may come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.