Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could need repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.

If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple temporary fix.

Broken Panes

If a upvc window repairs pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.

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

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to determine the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used only as a last resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon to make the window airtight. 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 can't be sucked out.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools feature 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 opening into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often solved. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any issues when you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked to ensure you are sure that they will offer a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

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

When a window seal fails it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to look visually disoriented. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the frame of the window repairs near me to remove moisture and clear the glass. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can 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 repair near me and reduce the need for repairs.