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 a good idea to contact the company who provided the windows to find out what their policy on repairs.

In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be a simple task. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved.

Broken Glass

Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the glass's outer and inner parts together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage can cause a loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.

Fortunately, fixing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.

Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are 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 using a wire brush. Once the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.

Some windows utilize vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of the new window to prevent further damage.

Seals that leak

If your double-glazed windows leak and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious problem as it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This could cause you to pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.

Luckily, there are some warning signs that you can look for to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. There may also be condensation forming on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.

To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. But, this is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to complete the work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.

You might be able to repair double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no other options.

It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to fail over time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age, or the way the windows are constructed. If this occurs it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.

Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double glazed window. There will be an air draught at the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame joins the brickwork or surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air can seep in. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches on the surrounding walls, but this is less common.

Condensation

double glazing repairs glazing windows are a great alternative for those who are trying to reduce energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to the point.

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

Condensation occurs most often in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a problem, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as quickly as you can to avoid it from spreading.

Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. This can cause them to break, which in turn will cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.

A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. Then, they'll 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 ones. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is type in your postcode as well as the kind of tradesmen you require to get a list results.

Frame Fragment Damage

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

Fractures that crack could be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when children or pets play. It is often possible to fix the issue with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down 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.

A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could result from a buildup of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem such as warping. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.

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

Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company in writing, by email or letter, not text messages - this will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them about any issues that arise.