Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues can be resolved.

If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under 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. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, Window Repair scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows when needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be only used as a last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This should be handled by an expert.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this is often repaired. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your claim.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged upvc window repairs near me seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.