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Double Glazed Windows Repairs

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

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window repair near me pane is broken it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, window repair causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments, which should come away quickly.

Scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining 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, such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and Window Repair running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.

It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation is left for a long time it may be experiencing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals can get worn out over time and cause drafts between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You'll reduce your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.

In certain situations an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it is often fixed. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any problems when you discover them. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there are any disputes, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.

In some cases, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and won't stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, decreasing its insulation properties.

A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. This method isn't foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.

If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.