Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you notice problems, it's worth contacting the company who supplied the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs is.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's inner and outer together. If one of the glass panes breaks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage could result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be done at home using some tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty blade. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier's putty on the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
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 you'll need to use a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without damaging it. After the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. 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 were previously.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for that can assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require sealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. But this is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to have this work done in order to be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't have good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. But, it's worth trying if you have no other options.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to break over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which windows are constructed. If this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced immediately to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air is able to seep in. This could result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first sign that a window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can cause mould growth and even wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's not a major problem, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as fast as possible to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Over time, the rubber seals in windows with double glazing can become worn. The rubber seals wear down over time, causing them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into the correct position. They will then push hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. Then they will apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. But it's also important to find a reliable tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade assists you by offering local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear or impact damage from pets or children. It is usually fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be because of a build-up of dirt or 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. Based on the severity, it could be simple to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters through damaged double-glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is because warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good thing is that you are able to solve these issues and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up with any issues that may arise.
