Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, it's worth contacting the company that supplied the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass in place. It can be difficult to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage can also result in the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and properly.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is an easy task that can be completed at home using a few materials and tools. To begin, take out any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag and acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using the putty blade. After all glazing points are removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue since it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires resealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are not working properly.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done in order to be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not the best option because it lacks heat resistance and can leak again. But, it's worth a try if you have no other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can break in time. double glazing near me could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. If this happens it is crucial 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 first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. You'll feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame meets the brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air get through. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners trying to reduce energy costs and improve their home's insulation. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time the point.
A common issue that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. It is often the first indication that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could lead to mould growth and even wood mold and even wood.
Condensation is most commonly seen 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 something to worry about, but it's a good idea to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window can become worn. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows fixed promptly in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new windows. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience performing repairs to double glazing. All you have to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to receive a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of your frame seals is broken If you hear crackling sounds or other strange sounds coming from the double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or impact damage from children or pets. Most of the time, this can be fixed with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. Based on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that may arise.
