Why Double Glazed Windows Repairs Is Harder Than You Think

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.

If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, inexpensive solution.

Broken Panes

If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, Repairmywindowsanddoors mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.

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

The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. This is usually caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as required.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded in time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final option. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mould or dampness within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It's simple to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.

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

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window doctor, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to correct this issue. Normally, repairmywindowsanddoors this involves making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is always best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.

A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window doctor frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can be re-created.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice when you're looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.