Double Glazed Windows Repairs: Myths And Facts Behind Double Glazed Wi…

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window doctor to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face particularly in winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and double glazing repair or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed immediately.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down in time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bill.

Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.

In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. The good news is that this can be easily repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.

If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist 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 won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is always best to seek professional help if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog may come back.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing an item of high-quality and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.