How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you find problems you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be simple in some instances. Here are the most common problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This type of damage can also lead to an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using some tools and materials. To begin remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shards. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame using an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left behind by the glue that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. Once all the glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, you can prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the help of a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier's putty on the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Some windows use vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once double glazing repair near me has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the surface of the new window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the gas that is thermally insulating is leaks out and your windows are losing efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when they're closed It could be because the seal has broken and needs to be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are failing.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. But it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't have a good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. However, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to break over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are constructed. When this happens it is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not performing well is usually evident by a draughty double glazed window. You'll feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air is able to seep in. In some instances this may result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to some.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. This can cause them to break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you observe signs of condensation or misting, it is important to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may still be lingering. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working exactly as it should.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be much less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. It's important to find a reliable tradesman who can do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can result from wear and tear or as a result of collision damage, such as when pets or children play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another issue that is common to 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 such as warping. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can fix these problems and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty prior to beginning work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, either by mail or email, rather than a text message - this will make things easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.