Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repair, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. 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, they must be removed as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which should be dealt with 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 remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform 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, as it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can find 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, so you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

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

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the upvc window repairs near me and cut down the number of repairs.