Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double glazed repair-glazed windows may need repairs to double glazing windows including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as required.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is just temporary solution and should be used only as the last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It can be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will help you prove your claim.

A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep repairing double glazed windows-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair windows. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of doors repairs.