Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes, to dropping or glazier sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.

If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap temporary fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still intact.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can break down over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time goes 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 simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your claim.

In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the upvc window repairs near me and cut down the number of repairs.