Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, cheap fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should be removed quite quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be reused if they're in good condition.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Using a caulking gun, repairs apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.

Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can break down in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash 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 to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and form an airtight seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are certain that they will provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

When a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window repair near me seal with a new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice when you're looking for the long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.