How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows

Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you notice a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company that provided the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.

In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be resolved.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage can cause the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and correctly.

Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with just a few tools and materials. To begin, remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.

Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all the glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame, and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.

Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order 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 outside of the glass pane to prevent further damage.

Leaking Seals

Seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills because your windows will not be as efficient as they once were.

There are a few warning signs you can watch out for that will aid in preventing drafty window from developing. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires resealing. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are failing.

The most straightforward method to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass firm to perform this work, as they can utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and Double Glazing Repairs not damage the glass.

In some cases, you might be able to fix your leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best solution as it does not have good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. However, it is worthwhile if there is no other options.

Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail as time passes. This can be caused by age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double glazing repairs near me-glazed windows remain as efficient as they were when they were first installed.

A draughty window is often the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt along the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air can be able to seep into. In some cases this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, though this is not the norm.

Condensation

Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish 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. It is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with immediately, it can lead mould growth and even to wood decay.

Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise and condensation to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.

Condensation isn't always an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting, it is important to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.

A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then run 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 brand new windows. But it's also important to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, vetted and checked traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to get an overview.

Frame Damage

If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.

Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by pets or children. It is often possible to fix the issue with an easy repair like using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames, which isn't something you want to take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.

Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This can be a result of an accumulation of dirt or dust 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. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the degree of the damage.

Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than cooler air outside, and so it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.

The good thing is that you are able to solve these issues, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty that typically lasts for a period of 10 to 20 years, but some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify what yours covers before you start work. Always contact your company via email or double glazing repairs letter, instead of text messages. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that might arise.