Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the upvc window repairs. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazed window repairs near me glazing could be a sign of a leaky seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

For a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has been left for too long you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

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

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

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

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your complaint.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace only the glass, which would 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 type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear 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 new one. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and could be a good option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.