Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good shape.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows as required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.

You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, Window repair the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon, Window repair to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

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

As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.

A damaged window repair seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could be re-created.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.