Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repair including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be resolved.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and Sash windows repair the optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring 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 light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be used again if they're in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. With 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 compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains a problem, it's important to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will be damaged over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed immediately.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down over time and cause a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can often be fixed. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

Contact the company from whom you bought your windows and let them know of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

A window repairs repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and form the seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice if you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.