Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A upvc window repair that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to 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 away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're intact.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double glazed window repairs near Me-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be only used as the last option. If the condensation has left for a long time it could be looking at dampness or even mould in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily solved. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, 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 an air pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.