Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window repair should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will break down in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution 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, you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it right. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective Draught-proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can often be repaired. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems when you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your case.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually altered. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window repairs seal with a new one. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be certain that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window repairs and minimize the need for repairs.