Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a simple, cheap solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have 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 a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. 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 points can be used again if they're intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should only be used as an option last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon for example, Window Repairs to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any problems as soon as you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window repairs appear to be distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option when you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your Window Repairs and decrease the need for repairs.