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 problems, it's worth contacting the company that provided the windows to find out what their policy for repairs is.

Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are some of the most common problems that can be resolved.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes break it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage can also lead to the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack fast and properly.

It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using just a few tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After the broken glass has been removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue left by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.

Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty knife. Once all glazing points have been removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new piece 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 putty on the edge of the glass to ensure it is secured against the frame.

Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can 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 then you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.

Leaking Seals

If your double-glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the gas that is thermally insulating is leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills as your windows will not be as efficient as they once were.

Luckily, there are some warning signs to be aware of to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could have been damaged and require replacing. You might also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.

The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. But it is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to have this work done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.

You might be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor resistance to heat and may leak again. However, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.

It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to break over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that the windows are put in place. If this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.

Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to seep in. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.

Condensation

Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require maintenance from time to time.

Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood mold and even wood.

Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from setting in.

However, it's not always the indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows might be misting up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window may wear out. They may eventually break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows fixed immediately if you notice any signs of misting or condensation.

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

It is important to remember that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. It's important to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode along with the type of tradesman you need to get a list of results.

Frame Damage

If you hear crackling sound or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.

Fractures may break because of general wear and tear or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. It is usually fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which is not something you'd want to do on yourself unless you're a competent tradesman.

Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could result from a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. It can be resolved by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.

Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.

The good part is that you can solve these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing the entire Window replacement near me. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a guarantee usually for 10 or 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check what yours covers before you start working. Always contact your company in writing, via mail or email, rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.