double glazing near me Glazed Windows Repairs

There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.

Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

If a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect 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 in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.

Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.

The remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.

Condensation

Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by too many moisture levels within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.

It's also important to note that condensation on windows with double glazing could be a sign of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window repairs and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.

For a quick fix to condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.

Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.

Draughts

As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.

Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. The tools have an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.

A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.

Faulty Hinges

Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. Normally, this involves making a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and inform them of any issues immediately you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your message. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.

In certain situations the window repair expert 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 and won't stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.

Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long run. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.

Broken Seals

Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, so it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.

If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually altered. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with the new one by an experienced glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.

A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can 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 decrease the amount of repairs.