How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot a problem it's worth checking with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes break, it can be very 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. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home with the right tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, since broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After 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 the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to employ a utility knife to slice 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 strip of strong-hold tape on the outside of the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue since it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is losing efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs that you can look out for to help keep a drafty window from developing. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require sealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
To stop drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to have this work done in order to be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it's worthwhile if there is no other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be due age, environmental conditions or the way that your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can so that your double-glazed windows will be the same as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has failed and air can be able to seep into. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time time.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can cause mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation is usually seen in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels are rising, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes 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 setting in.
But condensation isn't always the indication of a leaky seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows could be leaking. Over time, the rubber seals in windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals may be worn out over time, which causes them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane before placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be lingering. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that repairing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to complete the task. Checkatrade helps you by providing local, vetted, and checked traders with experience in the repair of double glazing. All you have to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesmen you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken if you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes. It's important to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
double glazing window repairs that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when pets or children play. This is often fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which isn't something you should take on your own unless you're a competent tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This can be a result of the accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, it could be simple to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The moisture that gets into your home through windows that are damaged can 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 settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that these problems can be corrected and, in most cases, it's less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees - always check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter, not text messages - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.