Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repair including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.

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Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

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

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation is left for too long it might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, window repair which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy 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 the new seals into position and is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and window repair may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog can 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. However, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.