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 spot a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company that supplied the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.

In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are some of the most common problems that can be resolved.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's inner and outer together. It can be difficult to remove a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may cause the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to repair the crack as quickly and correctly.

Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home using a few materials and tools. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wipe the frame of the frame with a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the frame.

Remove any remaining glazing points with a putty blade. Once all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window repair frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount glazier's putty on the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.

Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to use a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. After the stop has been removed, Double Glazing Repairs apply a strip of tape that is strong to the surface of the new glass to stop any further damage.

Seals that leak

If your double glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills since windows won't be as efficient as they once were.

There are a few warning signs that you can look for to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when closed, it could be because the seal has broken and must be resealed. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.

To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is best to consult an experienced glass company to do this task, since they can utilize deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and not harm the glass.

In certain cases, you might be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. It's worth a shot in the event that there are no other options available.

The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break as time passes. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. When this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.

A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is not performing to its best. You'll feel an air draught at the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame meets the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. In certain cases this could result in damp patches on the walls, but this is less common.

Condensation

Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to the point.

One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not dealt with quickly, it may cause the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.

Condensation occurs most often in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.

But condensation isn't always the sign of a failing seal and there are other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear out over time. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation, it is important to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.

A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into the correct position. They will then run hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning exactly as it should.

Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local verified, vetted, and inspected tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is type in your postcode along with the type of tradesmen you require to get a list results.

Frame Damage

If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as soon as you can to stop water from getting into your home.

Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or impact damage from pets or children. This can often be repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the insertion of new window frames which is not something you should take on your own unless you're an experienced tradesman.

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

Moisture that enters your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because warm air inside your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler air outside, and so it is more likely to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.

The good news is that these problems can be repaired, and it's often less expensive than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, by mail or email, rather than sending a text message. This will make it easier if you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.