Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear 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 or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once 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. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing system for installers your double glazed window repairs glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your claim.

A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and form the seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, installers a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers a warranty 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 best results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.