How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find a problem it's a good idea to contact the company that provided the windows to learn what their policy on repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing could be an easy task in some instances. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage may also result in the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using a few tools and materials. To do so, first remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all the glazing points are gone 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. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the use of a wire brush. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount of glazier's putty on the edge of the glass to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type you'll need to use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging it. Once the stop is removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the glass pane to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could cause you to pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
There are some warning signs to look for that can help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indicator that seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to do this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
In some cases you may be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't the best solution as it does not have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. But, it's worth trying if you have no other option available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. There will be a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. This can cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent option for homeowners who want to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the window's seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can cause the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't something to worry about, but it's a good idea clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing are prone to wear. The rubber seals wear down over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the damaged pane prior to placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that might remain. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing new windows. It's important to find a trustworthy tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade assists you by offering local certified, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs . All you have to do is type in your postcode and the type of tradesman you need to get a list results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or impact damage from children or pets. It is usually fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction of new window frames, which isn't something you should take on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be because of a build-up of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that enters through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because the warm air inside your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be corrected and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that might arise.