A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you notice an issue you're looking to fix, contact the company who supplied the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in some instances. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues 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 damaging the frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and efficiently.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as any broken glass may contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help of a wire brush. After the glass and frame are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges 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 support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the surface of the new glass to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a major problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows won't be as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look for that can assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when closed It could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass which is another indication that the seals are failing.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However, this is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows that are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a shot if there are no alternatives available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber may fail over time. This can be due to the environment, age or the way in which the windows are put in place. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows are the same as they were when they were first put in place.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. You will feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air seep through. In certain cases, this can lead to damp patches appearing on walls, but this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve their home's insulation. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can lead to mould growth and even wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising, which causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from spreading.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed may wear out. The rubber seals be worn out over time, causing them to break. This will depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows repaired immediately when you notice signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the opening to get rid of 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 new windows. But it's also important to find a reliable tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who have experience carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find an overview.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
double glazing window repairs can crack due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. This is often fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace the window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of the accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue such as the sash bending or warping frame. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can solve these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, via email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.
