Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you do spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy is regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. 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 inner and outer together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also lead to a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with just a few tools and materials. To begin, remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame with a rag 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. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount glazier's glue to the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood 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 employ a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the surface of the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs that you can be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed It could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are not working properly.
To stop drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work in order to be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to repair your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not an ideal solution as it does not have a good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. It is worth trying, in the event that there are no other options.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to break over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age or the way in which your windows are installed. If this occurs, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. You will feel drafts around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to seep in. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent option for homes that are trying to reduce energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is usually the first sign that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
double glazing near me occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising and condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a issue, but you should clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to avoid it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing are prone to wear. They may eventually break, which can reduce the air gap between your glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows repaired promptly when you notice signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It's important to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode as well as the kind of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other strange noises coming from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the seals on your frame has been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to stop moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by pets or children. This can often be fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames, which isn't something you should take on yourself unless you're skilled tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. Based on the severity, it could be simple to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is because warm air in your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it will easily settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good news is that you can fix these problems, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty that typically lasts for a period of 10 to 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify what yours covers before you begin work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text messages. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that might arise.
