5 Double Glazed Windows Repairs Projects That Work For Any Budget

Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip 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 reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still intact.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow reflazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Finally, put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window repair, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.

As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last resort. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within 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 remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they will also check for any damages or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.

Draughts

As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is typically a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. 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 that can't be removed.

Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.

In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that this can often be repaired. Usually, this means creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.

If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disputes the fact that everything is written will help you prove your case.

In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure that it is watertight.

It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.

If a upvc window repairs seal is damaged it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog may be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and can be a good choice when you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.