Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Most of these problems can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane 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's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. It should dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be only used as a last resort. If the condensation has left for too long, you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

The rubber seals wear down in time and create drafts between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window doctor near Me airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip 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, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can be easily repaired. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your case.

A window repair professional may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a 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, like age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window replacement near me frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.