Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Most of these problems are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come off fairly quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good shape.

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and local eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time it might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can seal your double glazing Epsom-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.

A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

Contact the company through which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems when you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are 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, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.

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 option and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.