Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. 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.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to 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. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor replacing fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should only be only used as the last resort. If the condensation has left for too long, you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During this process, they'll also look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations, a professional could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to fix this problem. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

If you discover 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've received your notification. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In some instances the window repair expert will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

double glazing near me glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.