How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows

Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you spot problems, it's worth contacting the company who sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy regarding repairs to double glazing windows is.

In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to repair them.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner 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 result in an energy loss which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.

Fortunately, repairing double glazing windows damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy task that can be completed at home using just some tools and materials. To begin, you must remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Be sure to wear gloves when doing so, as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.

Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty blade. After all the glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Finally, prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help of a wire brush. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.

Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this type, you will need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the outside of the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.

Leaking Seals

If your double glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a major problem as it means all the gas that is thermally insulating is being released 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 that can aid in preventing drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass which is another indication that seals are failing.

The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging task that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass company to complete this job, as they can use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and harm the glass.

In some cases it is possible to repair leaky double-glazed windows using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not an ideal solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and could leak again in the future. However, it's worth trying if you have no other option available.

Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can fail as time passes. This could be caused by age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are installed. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows remain as efficient as they were when they were first installed.

A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. You will feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to seep through. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, although this is less common.

Condensation

Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require regular maintenance from time to the point.

One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first indication that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.

Condensation is usually seen in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.

Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window are prone to wear. They may eventually break, which will then reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you observe signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.

To repair double glazed window a double glazed window with condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still remain. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning as it should be.

It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows can be much cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It's important to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps you by providing local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repairs to double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find an overview.

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 repairs-glazed windows. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, so it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture entering your home.

Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by children or pets. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction 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 buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem such as warping. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the extent of the issue.

Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because the warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it is more likely to get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.

The good news is that you can solve these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty prior to beginning work. Always contact your company via email or letter instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that might arise.