This Is A Guide To Double Glazed Windows Repairs In 2023

Double Glazed upvc windows repair Repairs

Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause water to leak between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.

In the beginning, you’ll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It’s a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will 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 off 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 metal clips and glazier’s pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier’s gilder’s points can be re-used if they’re still intact.

The remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier’s compounds that comes in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It’s usually caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it’s important to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows if required.

It’s also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will become degraded in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.

A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.

Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They’ll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. In the process, they’ll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows repair are completely operational and energy efficient again.

Draughts

Rubber seals may wear down in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective draught proofing system.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a frequent issue that many people face. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. Usually, this means making a new seal between 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. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.

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

Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, replacement age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to repair them.

When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. If the seal is damaged it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.

A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn’t 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.

A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option when you’re looking for the long-term solution. But, it’s best to choose a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be certain that your investment will provide the best results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.