Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should only be only used as a last option. If the condensation has been left for a long time you may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to correct this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs (Telegra post to a company blog) by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired 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. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and double glazing repairs it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog could return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.