Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window repairs or door when it is difficult to open. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and double glazed Windows Repair can create draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

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

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows repair glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by many factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, so the fog can come back.

A glazier is also able to 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 looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.