Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Then, you can 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 levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may break down over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation has left for misted a long time, you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and create a draft between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by upvc window repairs seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window repairs near me to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.