How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows

Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you notice problems you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to find out what their policy for repairs.

Repairing your double glazing could be an easy task in some instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be solved.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass in place. It can be difficult to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may also lead to a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and properly.

Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home using a few materials and tools. To begin, take out all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shards. After getting rid of the broken glass make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.

Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty blade. After all the glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the upvc window repairs near me frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane joins the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame is clean, apply a small amount glazier's putty on the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.

Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of the new pane of window to prevent further damage.

Leaking Seals

Seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills as windows aren't as effective as they once were.

Luckily, there are warning signs you should be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when they're closed, it could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be resealed. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass which is another indicator that seals are failing.

The easiest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you contact a professional glazing company to have this work done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.

In certain cases it is possible to repair leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no other options available.

It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround your double glazed windows to break over time. This can be due to the environment, age or the way in which your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first came out.

A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to get through. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.

Condensation

Double glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners trying to reduce energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. They are durable and last a long time however they require regular maintenance.

One common problem that double glazed windows experience is condensation. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.

Condensation is most commonly seen in the mornings when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a issue, but it is important to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to avoid it from setting in.

But it's not always a indicator of a failed seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows might be misting up. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can get worn out over time. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows fixed immediately when you notice indications of condensation or misting.

A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into its place. They will then run hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning in the way it should.

Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in doing double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that 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 likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals keep cold and water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to stop water from getting into your home.

Fragments that crack can be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. This is often fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which is not something you should take on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.

Another issue 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 such as warping. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the severity.

Moisture that gets in through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, and mold and condensation. This is because warm air in your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it will easily settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.

The good part is that these issues can be fixed and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty prior to beginning work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.