5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Lessons From The Pros

Double Glazed Windows upvc repairs

Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. The majority of these issues are fixable.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. 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 condition.

The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for reflazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows as needed.

Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the Window Doctor Near Me to get smudged and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed immediately.

Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be used as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In the process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process 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 insulated glass can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you cash on your energy bills.

Misted double glazing is a sign the seals in the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.

This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this is often repaired. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.

Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass free of fog. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could come back.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.