Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you spot a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who provided the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner glass together. It is difficult to take out a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could also lead to a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack fast and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home using just a few tools and materials. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the use of a wire brush. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new glass to hold it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some types of windows use vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double glazed windows are of this type you'll need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop is removed then you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to look out for to help keep a drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs replacing. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. However this is a complicated job that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to repair leaky double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not the best solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break in time. This could be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are constructed. When this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draught 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 been breached, allowing air to get through. In double glazing repair near me may result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, though this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed immediately, it can lead mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, which causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a issue, but you should remove any visible condensation as fast as you can to avoid it from forming.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows could be leaking. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. The rubber seals may be worn out over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows fixed as soon as possible if you notice any 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 in place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to remove any moisture. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade assists you by offering local certified, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. The 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 stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with children or pets. Often this can be remedied with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of an accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the severity.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it is more likely to be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be fixed and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a guarantee usually for 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter, not text messages - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.
