How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you notice a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs is.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. It can be difficult to remove a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, fixing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home using some tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves when doing this, since any broken glass may contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean double glazing repairs near me using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame, and seal the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are made of this type then you'll need make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without ruining it. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the gas that is thermally insulating is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead to expensive heating bills since windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look for that can help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might be damaged and requires replacing. You may also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to complete this task, since they can use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
In certain cases it is possible to repair your leaking double-glazed windows using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best option as it doesn't have good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. However, it's worth trying if you have no other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail as time passes. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. If this happens, it is important to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air is able to get in. In certain cases this may result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to some.
One of the most frequent issues double glazed windows experience is condensation. Condensation is usually the first sign that a window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows could be leaking. Over time, the rubber seals in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals may wear out over time, leading them to break. This can cause the air gap to become depressurized. air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately when you notice signs of misting or condensation.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may still remain. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that repairing your double-glazed windows can be a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local verified, vetted, and inspected traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the frame seals has broken down. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture infiltrating your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or impact damage from pets or children. Often this can be remedied with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames which isn't something you want to take on your own unless you're a competent tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could result from a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural issue such as warping. Depending on the severity, this may be easy to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as windows with double glazing or single-glazed that are not properly sealed.
The good news is that these problems can be fixed and is usually 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 however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company in writing, via email or letter, not text messages - this will make it easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.