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Double Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repair such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.

Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is a quick and affordable fix.

Broken Panes

When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and window could cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments, which should come away fairly quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good shape.

You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.

Condensation

Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window repairs. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in an expert 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 a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may break down over time, allowing cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.

A hairdryer can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If the condensation has been left for too long you could be looking at mould or dampness within your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.

For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor 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 colder air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.

This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.

A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.

In some cases, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.

Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and how to repair them.

If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and window it can cause the window to appear visually altered. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.

A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option and could be a good option if you're seeking the long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.