Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that lasts up to 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are the most frequent problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass in place. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage could also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore important to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Fortunately, fixing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous fragments. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's putty can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs to look for to aid in preventing drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require replacing. There may be condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional 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 it is possible to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it's worth trying if you have no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are installed. If 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 were first put in.
Double glazing that is not working properly is usually spotted by a draughty double glazed window. view it now will likely be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air can be able to seep into. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the surrounding walls, though this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting but they do require some maintenance.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's recommended to remove any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals can wear out over time, leading them to break. This can cause the air gap to become depressurized. air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting It is essential to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and working as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who are skilled in doing double glazing repairs . All you need to do is enter your postcode as well as the kind of tradesmen you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken if you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to stop water from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can result from wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when children or pets play. This is often repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This can be a result of an accumulation 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 bending or warping frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the severity.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't sealed properly.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty prior to beginning work. Always contact your company by email or letter instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow up with any issues that may arise.
