Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.

If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make 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 will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you begin, grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.

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 along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It is typically caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window repair near me is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if not addressed immediately.

Hairdryers 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 last option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, Window Repair clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a simple problem to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be fixed. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks 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 notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It may also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it 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. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. It is best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazed window repairs near me glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.