How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who provided the windows to inquire about what their policy regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold 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 window frame. This type of damage may cause a decline in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home with the right tools and materials. To begin, you must remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left behind by the glue used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using the putty blade. After all the glazing points are gone and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to fix it to the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely to be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills because your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires replacing. There may also be condensation forming on the glass which is another indication that the seals are failing.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to complete the work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not an ideal solution since it doesn't have good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. However, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to fail over time. This could be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are set up. If this happens it is essential to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double-glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air can get in. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent option for homes that are seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and last a long time however they require regular maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If double glazing repair near me of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could result in mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing may wear out. This could cause them to break, which will then cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately in the event that you observe any indications of condensation or misting.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that might be lingering. Then they will apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in performing repairs to double glazing. All you need to do is type in your postcode and the type of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of your frame seals is broken when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to stop moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with children or pets. This is often repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're a skilled tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This can be a result of a build-up of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can repair these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees - always check what yours covers before you begin work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.