How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you spot problems it's a good idea to contact the company who provided the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs is.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are some of the most common problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's inner and outer together. If one of the glass panes cracks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage may cause an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack fast and properly.
Fortunately, fixing cracked glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home using a few tools and materials. To start remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. After getting rid of the broken glass make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all the glazing points have been removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure that 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 the help of a wire brush. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows use vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type, 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. Once the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the outside of the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This can result in expensive 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 help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed it could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass which is another indicator that seals are failing.
The most straightforward method to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. You should contact a professional glass firm to perform this work, as they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and damage the glass.
You might be able to repair double-glazed windows which are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it does not have good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. It's worth a try, if there are no other options available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to break over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are installed. If this occurs, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. You will feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air is able to be able to seep into. This could result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic 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 regular maintenance from time to the point.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. Double Glazing Repairs can be seen on your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation is not always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear out over time. The rubber seals can wear down over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows fixed as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the damaged pane prior to placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may be present. Then they will apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes, and it's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture getting into your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or impact damage from children or pets. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction of new window frames which is not something you should take on your own unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This can be a result of a build-up of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track, or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the severity.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is because warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it will easily settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check what yours covers before you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, via email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make it easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.