Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. 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 a quick, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, Misted make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can 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 windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be repaired. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

As soon as you notice any problems, 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 message. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

If a upvc window repairs near me seal is damaged, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog can come back.

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 option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.