15 Surprising Stats About Repairing Double Glazing

How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot problems, it's worth contacting the company who provided the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner glass in place. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may also result in an energy loss, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with just a few tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all the glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane joins the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Finally, prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to secure it 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 of this kind then you'll need use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the exterior of the new pane of window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely to be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem since it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs to look out for that will aid in preventing drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed It could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are not working properly.
To stop drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work and they will be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases it is possible to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. But, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber may fail in time. This could be due age, environmental conditions or the way your windows are installed. When this happens, it is important to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is not performing to its best. There will be drafts around the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to be able to seep through. In some instances this may result in damp patches on the walls, though this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great option for homes that are looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They last for a long time and are durable, however they require regular maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double glazed windows experience is condensation. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not dealt with quickly, it may cause mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear out over time. This can cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting It is essential to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back in its place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand new windows. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps you by providing local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as quickly as you can in order to stop water from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. It is often possible to fix the issue with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace the window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be because of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track or it could be a sign 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, dependent on the severity.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double-glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it is more likely to settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired, and it's often cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you start work. Be sure to communicate with 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.