Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. 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 prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.

The remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and RepairMyWindowsAndDoors eventually develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation is left for a long time it might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain situations professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It may be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.

Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any problems when you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your claim.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window repair near me appear distorted. If the seal fails, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option when you're seeking the long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.