Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation has left for too long you might be facing 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, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. door repairs near me You can save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.

This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it is often repaired. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues when you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.

In some instances the window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.