Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair such as condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky 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 cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and window repair should be only used as an option last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in the space between the 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 colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that it is often fixed. Typically, this is done by making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help 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 notice them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many elements, Window Repair including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog can return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option when you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the best results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.