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 lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window repair near or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple temporary fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, Double Glazed Windows Repairs they should be replaced as well. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify 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 failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out 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 dealt with promptly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and colder air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be an indication 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 can enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog may return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. Alternately, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.