Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and affordable solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're 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 glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to get a professional to get to the root 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 vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.

You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

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 expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it is often repaired. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal get more info will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will help you prove your claim.

A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create a seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. 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 company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.