Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a simple, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Utilizing 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 compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the upvc window repairs near me and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down over time and cause drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

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. It is often possible to correct this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company through which you bought your windows and let them know of any issues as soon as you notice them. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. Writing everything down will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and Window repair following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.