7 Things About Repairing Double Glazing You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing

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 you're looking to fix, contact the company that supplied the windows to learn what their policy regarding repairs. In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved. Broken Glass Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the glass's inner and outer together. If one of the glass panes cracks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly. Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using a few materials and tools. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wash the frame of the frame using an abrasive pad that is dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any traces left behind by the glue used to secure the broken glass to the frame. Remove any remaining glazing points using the putty blade. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in position against the frame and seal the gap between the frames. Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the surface of the new glass to stop any further damage. Seals that leak Seals around the frame are likely be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem as it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is becoming less efficient. This can result in expensive heating bills because windows aren't as effective as they once were. There are a few warning signs you should look for to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass which is another indication that seals are failing. The most straightforward method to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. But it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to complete this work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not damage the glass. In some cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best solution as it does not have a good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options. Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can fail in time. This can be due to the environment, age or the way that windows are constructed. When this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced 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. You'll feel an air draught at the frame's edges, especially where the frame meets the brickwork or surrounding wall. The seal has failed and air is able to get in. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls. Condensation Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, however they require regular maintenance. One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can cause the growth of mould and eventually wood rot. Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from setting in. Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear down over time. They may eventually break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows fixed as soon as possible if you notice any signs of misting or condensation. To repair a double glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before installing it and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may still be present. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working in the way it should. It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find an overview. Frame Damage It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, and it's essential that you get these replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture entering your home. Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when pets or children play. This can often be fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace your window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades. Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt in the track or a structural issue like warping. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push. Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it can easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed. Double Glazing Window And Door Parts derby is that you can repair these issues and, in most cases, it will be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check what yours covers before you begin work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax instead of text messages. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that may arise.