How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows

Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that lasts up to 20 years. If you find an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.

Repairing your double glazing could be simple in certain instances. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner glass together. It can be difficult to remove the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also lead to the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and properly.

Fortunately, fixing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, take out any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the frame of the window.

Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.

Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this type, you will need to employ a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.

Leaking Seals

Seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could cause you to pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they once were.

There are a few warning signs to look out for to help stop a drafty window replacement from developing. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed it could be due to the seal having broken and must be replaced. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.

To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to complete this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and cause damage to the glass.

You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.

It is not unusual for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are set up. If this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first installed.

A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. You'll feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air can seep in. In certain cases this may result in damp patches on the walls, although this is less common.

Condensation

Double-glazing windows are an excellent option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to the point.

Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.

Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from setting in.

Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. This could cause them to break, which will then reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting It is essential to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.

A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.

It is important to know that repairing your double glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by supplying you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you have to do is enter your postcode along with the type of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.

Frame Damage

If you hear crackling sound or other odd noises emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, so it's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to stop moisture entering your home.

Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.

A common issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be because of an accumulation of dirt or cheaper dust that has become stuck in the track or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. Depending on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.

Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.

The good aspect is that these issues can be fixed and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, but some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check the coverage of your window replacement prior to you start work. Always communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.