Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window repairs near me in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may break down in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be used only as a last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll also look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows 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 can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it is often fixed. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your claim.

A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form the seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is 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

Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and window Repair others are lost from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain 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 doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good option if you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.