Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you notice problems it's a good idea to contact the company who supplied the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are the most common issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It can be difficult to remove a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage can also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home with some tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the 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 then clean the backside as well as the an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the glass's edge to fix it to the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type, you will need to use a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely to be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This could result in costly heating bills because windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look for to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a breeze blowing through your windows when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require sealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. But double glazing repair near me is a challenging task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. You should contact an expert glass firm to perform this task, since they can utilize deglazing equipment that can remove the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
In certain situations, you might be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor resistance to heat and could leak again. It is worth trying, when there aren't any other options available.
It is not uncommon to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to fail over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age or the way in which the windows are constructed. When this happens it is crucial to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double glazed window. You'll feel drafts around the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. This can cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require regular maintenance from time to the point.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation is not addressed immediately, it can lead mould growth and even to wood decay.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indicator of a failed seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows could be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. They may eventually break, which in turn will cause the air gap to be compressed between the glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation, it is important to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in doing double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken If you hear crackling sounds or other strange sounds coming from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, so it's important to get them repaired 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 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 severe and extensive, you may have to replace your window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt within the track or a structural issue like warping. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and is usually less expensive than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by mail or email, 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.
