Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repair including condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or UPVC repair sagged frames. Thankfully, uPVC repairs most of problems can be addressed.

If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before 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 off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be used again if they're intact.

The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if required.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be only used as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long you could be looking at dampness or even mould within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also check for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew 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 cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

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

Faulty Hinges

Many people have had misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can be easily fixed. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and let them know of any problems when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.

If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and could be a good option if you're looking for the long-term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window replacement and minimize the need for repairs.