Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues are fixable.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, water can leak between them causing 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 the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound 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 wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when required.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause the window repair to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for too long it might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight upvc window repairs near me. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

This is a simple problem to fix and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed window repairs near me-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.