Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, Double Glazing a majority of problems can be addressed.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.

Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final resort. If the condensation is left for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window replacement, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.

In some instances an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It may also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.

When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear disfigured. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window doctor near me seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great option if you're 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 issues are protected. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.