Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, affordable solution.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner 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 installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and settles 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 running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains a problem, window repair it's important to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away 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.

Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation has left for too long it might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

This is a simple problem to repair, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

As soon as you notice 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 notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

In certain situations the Window Repair (Pattern-Wiki.Win) expert may be able to drill a hole 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 unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and Window Repair is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.