10 Double Glazed Windows Repairs That Are Unexpected

Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and the optimum 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 worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Let it dry before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded in time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last alternative. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out in time and create a draft between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
This is a simple issue to solve and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools have an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. This can be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it is often solved. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
In some instances the [1] window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually disoriented. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are emitted from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a the new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. However, it's best to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the best results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the number of repairs.