How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought the windows from to determine what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a simple process in certain instances. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the inner and outer glass together. It can be difficult to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also lead to a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home with just a few materials and tools. To start take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left behind by the glue used to fix the broken glass to the window frame.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once 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 position against the frame and seal the gap between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of the new window to avoid further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue as it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could mean you pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs you should be aware of to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when they're closed, it could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. But, this is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to complete the work, as they will be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases, you might be able to repair leaky double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not an ideal solution as it does not have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. However, it is worth trying if you have no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround your double glazed windows to break over time. This could be due to environmental conditions, age, or the way your windows are set up. It is crucial to replace the seals as quickly as you can so that your double-glazed windows are as effective as when they first came out.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for those who are seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve their home's insulation. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation is usually seen in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's not usually a issue, but it is important to wipe off any visible condensation as fast as possible to prevent it from spreading.
But double glazing repair near me 's not always a sign of a failing seal, and there are many other causes why double-glazed windows might be misting up. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows with double glazing may wear out. This could cause them to break, which will then cause the air gap to be compressed between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows repaired as soon as possible if you notice any signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then run hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in doing double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesperson you require to get a list results.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, so it's vital to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by children or pets. Often this can be remedied with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which isn't something you want to take on your own unless you're an experienced 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 dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould and dampness. This is because the warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that these issues can be fixed and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, by email or letter, not text messages - this will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.