Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick, affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can be damaged in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

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

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that this is often solved. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some cases an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazed window repairs near Me repair of your glazing. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

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

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to look visually altered. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. 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 upvc window repairs frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof, and it doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. But, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.