Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, you should check with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend 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 kind of damage could result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home with some tools and materials. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear protective gloves while doing so, as any broken glass may contain dangerous fragments. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag and acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, in the know can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. Once the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the surface of the new window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely to be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows won't be as efficient as they were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for that can assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires sealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. You should contact a professional glass company to do this task, since they can use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a shot if there are no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are installed. When this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. You'll feel a draught around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to get in. In some instances this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are trying to reduce energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first indication that the window seal is failing. If condensation is not addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't something to worry about, but it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal, and there are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear out over time. This can cause them to break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows fixed immediately when you notice signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then push hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. Then they will apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive a list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged if you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between the glass panes. It's important to get them replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can result from wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when children or pets play. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix 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 is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt within the track or a structural issue such as warping. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it is more likely to be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good thing is that you are able to solve these issues and it can be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, via email or letter, not text messages - this will make it easier if you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.
