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 problems, it's worth contacting the company who supplied the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs is.

Repairing your double glazing can be a simple process in some cases. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep 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 frame of the window. This kind of damage could also lead to a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to door repair the crack as quickly and properly.

Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home using some tools and materials. To begin, remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash 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 glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to fix it to the frame.

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 this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the outside of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.

Seals that leak

If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a major problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This could mean you spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.

There are a few warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal may have broken and needs resealing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass which is another indication that seals are failing.

The simplest way to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you contact a professional glazing company to have this work done in order to be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.

You may be able to repair double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options available.

It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround the double-glazed windows to break over time. This can be due to the environment, age or the way your windows are installed. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows remain the same as they were when they were first put in place.

Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to seep through. This could cause damp patches to appear on the walls.

Condensation

Double glazing windows are a great alternative for those who are trying to reduce energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and long-lasting but they do require some maintenance.

Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed immediately, it can lead mould growth and even to wood rot.

Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't something to worry about, but it's recommended to remove any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from forming.

Condensation is not always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear out over time. This could cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately in the event that you observe any indications of condensation or misting.

A tradesman can repair a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.

It is important to know that repairing your double glazed windows can be much cheaper than buying and installing new ones. 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 tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to get the list.

Frame Fragment Damage

It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken if you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes. It's vital to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.

Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with children or pets. This is often fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're an experienced tradesman.

Another issue 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 warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.

Moisture that enters through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, and mold and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to hold moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that are not properly sealed.

The good news is that you can fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up with any issues that may arise.