Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed relatively quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess once the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still intact.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that repairing double glazed windows-glazed windows may experience particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows when needed.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be fixed. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.

Contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and tell them of any issues immediately you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair doors may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the signs are and how to fix them.

If a window glass repairs seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog could return.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window repairman and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.