Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and Window Repair handles. This is a quick, cheap fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The remaining frame must be prepared for reflazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window repairs near me. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and window repair fix or replace your windows when necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long it may be experiencing mould or dampness in 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, clear the gaps and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply 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 be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight upvc window repair. 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 is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain cases, a professional might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. Typically, this is done by creating a new 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 inform them of any problems when you spot them. You should notify 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, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers 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 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. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and is a great option when you're seeking the long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.