Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazing Lewisham-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will be damaged in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation is left for too long you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and Repairmywindowsanddoors cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of 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, creating 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 that is not able to be cleaned off.

This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, Repairmywindowsanddoors also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog can be re-applied.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.