Double Glazed Windows Repairs Strategies From The Top In The Business

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

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

First, you will need to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in 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 help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then condenses 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 enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be used only as an option last resort. If the condensation is left for too long, you might be facing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double glazed window repairs near me-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.

This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools feature 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 opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to correct this issue. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and let them know of any issues when you spot them. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did complain.

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

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. 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 fix them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.