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, a majority of problems can be addressed.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good shape.

The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last alternative. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. In the process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is 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 can reduce your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced very 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 manually. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your claim.

A upvc window repairs near me repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.

If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to appear visually altered. When the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can be re-applied.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.