Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking 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 you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off quite quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow reflazing. 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 that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged in time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.

You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the 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, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be repaired. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and let them know of any problems as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.

Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed window repairs glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this can be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could come back.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.

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