Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should be removed fairly 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 the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be used again if they're intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It is typically caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down in time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be used only as the last resort. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long it might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. 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 blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations, a professional might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and it will still offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It may be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this can be easily solved. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down 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 a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. It is best to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazed window repairs near me glazing repair. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the upvc window repairs, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a a new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could return.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.