Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems are fixable.

Try applying lubrication to 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

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.

The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if needed.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed promptly.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be used only as an option last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

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

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you notice them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and service make a new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind 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. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double glazed window repairs near me glazing repair. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

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

When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the upvc window repairs frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog can return.