Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes breaks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This type of damage can cause an energy loss, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing cracked glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be accomplished at home using a few materials and tools. To begin, take out all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left behind by the glue that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After double glazing window repairs has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
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 you'll need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require sealing. You may also notice condensation forming on the glass which is another sign that the seals are not working properly.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work in order to be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a try, if there are no alternatives available.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows may fail as time passes. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age or the manner in which your windows are set up. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows will be as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty 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. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air be able to seep through. This could cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time some.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first sign that a window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows might be misting up. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows fixed promptly when you notice signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back in its place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. It is also essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesman you need to get a list results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has been damaged. These seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, and it's important to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when children or pets play. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames which isn't something you'd want to do on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem like warping. Based on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that these problems can be fixed and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that may arise.
