Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you bought them from to see what their policy on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be a simple task. Here are the most frequent problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. It can be difficult to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may cause a decline in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and efficiently.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home with a handful of tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. Once the broken glass is removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type then you'll need use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of tape that is strong to the outside of the new glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is being released and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This could cause you to pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are some warning signs you should look out for to help prevent a draughty window from developing. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows when they are closed, the seal could have been damaged and require resealing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indication that seals are failing.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. However this is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass firm to perform this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
In some cases you may be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, in the event that there are no alternatives available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail in time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows are the same as they were when they were first put in place.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air get through. In some instances this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require regular maintenance from time to some.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. Condensation is usually the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window can become worn. This can cause them to break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting It is essential to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into place. They will then run hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It is also essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to complete the task. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected tradesmen who are skilled in the repair of double glazing. All you need to do is enter your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to get a list results.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken if you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's important to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can result from wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when pets or children play. Often this can be remedied with an easy repair like using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. If the damage is more extensive and extensive, you may have to replace the window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt in the track or a structural issue like warping. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Also, always contact your company in writing, via email or letter rather than a text message - this will make things easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.
