In some instances, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes break it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home with just a few tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Be sure to wear protective gloves while doing so, as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After the broken glass has been removed, wipe the frame of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using the putty blade. After all glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's glue to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs replacing. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indicator that seals are failing.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended that you contact a professional glazing company to have this work done in order to be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not an ideal solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and is susceptible to leaks in the future. However, it is worth trying if you have no other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows may fail over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are installed. It is crucial to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows remain as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that is not performing well is usually evident by a drafty double glazed window. There will be drafts around the frame's edges, where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air to seep through. In certain cases this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this is less common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time time.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first sign that a window seal is failing. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows. It isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear out over time. The rubber seals may wear out over time, causing 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 repaired immediately if you notice any signs of misting or condensation.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane, before installing it and running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may still remain. They will then apply an entirely new seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand new windows. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the frame seals has failed. These seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or impact damage from pets or children. This is often repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be the result of a build-up of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. 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 can cause condensation, mould and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it will easily 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 corrected and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter, not text messages - this will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them about any issues that arise.
