10 Double Glazed Windows Repairs That Are Unexpected

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.

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

Broken Panes

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

The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should come off fairly quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.

The remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Finally, install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to get a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get 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. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain situations professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in the desiccant material, or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can often be repaired. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.

If you discover any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your complaint.

A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make the seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window repairs. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.

A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace the inert gasses, so the fog can return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.