8 Tips To Improve Your Double Glazed Windows Repairs Game window repair near me Glazed Windows Repairs

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

If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple solution that is quick and easy to fix.

Broken Panes

When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.

First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.

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

The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. 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 winter months. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.

It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.

As a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be used as an option last option. If the condensation is left for a long time, you could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.

As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During this process, they'll examine for any damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing treatment to ensure your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.

Draughts

As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by re-installing 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 save money on your energy bills.

Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.


This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the right tools. The specialist will use an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.

In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.

Faulty Hinges

Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be solved. Usually, this means creating a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.

You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and let them know of any issues as soon as you spot them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.

In certain situations an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create the new seal. However, this is generally only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, to ensure that it is watertight.

It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and experience required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked, 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 keep double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.

When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.

A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.

A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're seeking an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.