Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.

If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is damaged it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken, 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. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to call in an expert to determine the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be only used as the last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll also check for damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, Double glazing New addington such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.

This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and it will still offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double glazing repair Bletchley glazing.

Faulty Hinges

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

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some cases an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent 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 entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

A glazier can also 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 good choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended 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 most out of your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing the best quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.