Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will break down over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as a last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, Window repair it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out over time and create drafts between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and Window Repair cooler air out. You will save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In some cases, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot 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 notification. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by many elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, further diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window repair near me frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if you're 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 protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.