Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will 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 relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. 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 may be reused if still in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, Window repair or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows if needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation is left for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down over time and create 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. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window repairs near me airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

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 great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.