Why Double Glazed Windows Repairs Is Your Next Big Obsession

Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should be removed relatively quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's evidence 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 intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by excessive levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal will break down over time and allow cool air to flow 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 for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation is left for a long time, you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes which is not able to be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. 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 repaired. Normally, this involves making a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any issues immediately you spot them. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure it is watertight.
Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They can be damaged by many factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows moisture to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, meaning that fog can come back.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.