Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, you should check with the company you bought them from to see what their policy is on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. It isn't easy to remove the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may also result in an energy loss, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shards. After taking the broken glass off, make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the use of a wire brush. Once the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's putty may be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are of this kind then you'll need use a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without ruining it. After the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This could cause you to pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
Luckily, there are warning signs you should be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs sealing. There may be condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals are failing.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. However, this is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to contact an experienced glass company to do this job, as they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the seals that were previously used and not harm the glass.
In certain situations, you might be able to repair leaky double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal option because it lacks heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a shot in the event that there are no other options available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to fail over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows remain the same as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double-glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the window's seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's a good idea remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from forming.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. They may eventually break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows repaired promptly if you notice any indications of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back in the correct position. They will then run hot air through the opening to get rid of any moisture. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows can be much cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience carrying out double glazing repair s. You only need to enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when pets or children play. This is often repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're a skilled tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem such as warping. It can be resolved by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the severity.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it is more likely to be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be corrected, and it's often less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double-glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check the coverage of your window prior to you begin work. Always contact your company via email or letter, rather than text message. This will allow you to follow up on any issues that may arise.
