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. Most of these problems are fixable.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're intact.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may be damaged over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools have an edge 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 upvc window repairs near me, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this is often repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It may also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure they will provide a quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by many elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can be re-applied.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.