How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you notice an issue it's a good idea to contact the company that sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes breaks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage can also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix it 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 do so, first remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After the broken glass has been removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the glue that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Remove any remaining glazing points with the putty blade. Once all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs to look for that can aid in preventing drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed it could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another sign that seals are failing.
The most straightforward method to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to complete the work, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations you may be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it is worthwhile if there is no other option available.
It is not uncommon to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to fail over time. Double Glazing Repair could be due to the environment, age or the way that windows are constructed. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows are as effective as when they first came out.
Double glazing that is not performing well is usually evident by a draughty double glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to be able to seep into. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
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 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 spreading.
But it's not always a indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other causes why double-glazed windows might be misting up. Over time, the rubber seals in windows that are double-glazed may wear out. They may eventually break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in its place. They will then blow hot air through the opening to eliminate any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. But it's also important to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help by supplying you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode and the type of tradesperson you require to get a list results.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has broken down. These seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. This can often be repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem such as warping. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the extent of the issue.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness, mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will easily settle on surfaces like double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that these problems can be repaired, and it's often cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, but some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you start work. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax instead of text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that might arise.