How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you find a problem it's worth checking with the company that you bought windows from to find out what their policy is regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are the most common issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes breaks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage could cause an energy loss, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and correctly.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To begin, take out any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Make sure you wear protective gloves while doing this, since any broken glass may contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol 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 with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Finally, prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. Once the frame is clean, apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Certain kinds of windows utilize vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this type you'll need to use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the surface of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem as it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows aren't as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look for to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when they're closed, it could be due to the seal having been damaged and requires to be replaced. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass which is another indicator that seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done in order to be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. But, it's worthwhile if there is no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way windows are constructed. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can so that your double-glazed windows will be as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing is underperforming. A draft is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air to get through. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, although this is less common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic option for homes that are looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't dealt with quickly, it may lead to mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation is usually seen in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels rising, which causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.
But condensation isn't always the indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other causes why double-glazed windows may be leaking. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. They may eventually 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 fixed immediately.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in its place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesman you need to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture entering your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by wear and tear or due to injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. It is often possible to fix the issue by a simple fix like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction of new window frames, which is not something you want to take on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be the result of an accumulation of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track, or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. Based 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 windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it is more likely to get trapped on surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good news is that you can repair these issues and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, by email or letter, not sending a text message. double glazing repair near me will make it easier if you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.