Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed window repairs near me glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Many of these issues can be resolved.

Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also broken, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and maximum energy efficiency.

Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window repairs near me that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces and the glass should break away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix for condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation is left for a long time you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a better, more durable solution. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It's 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'll save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain cases an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is often possible to fix this problem. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company through which you bought your windows and inform them of any issues immediately you discover them. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.

A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form a seal. However, this is generally only a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and experience required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's important to know what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

A glazier can 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. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be sure that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.