How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you notice a problem it's a good idea to contact the company who supplied the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be an easy job. 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 hold the glass's inner and outer 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 type of damage can cause a loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a simple job that can be done at home with a handful of tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shards. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. Once all the glazing points are gone, clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's putty on the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the surface of the 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 major issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is being released and windows are losing their efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs to look for to assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when closed it could be due to the seal having broken and must be resealed. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work in order to be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to repair your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. However, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way the windows are put in place. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as effective as when they first came out.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. A draught will likely be felt along the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air can get in. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they require maintenance from time to the point.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can result in mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from setting in.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. double glazing repair can cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately in the event that you observe any signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesperson can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in the correct position. They will then run hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning in the way it should.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. All you need to do is enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken if you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, and it's vital to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or impact damage from children or pets. Most of the time, this can be fixed with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of a build-up of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track, or it could indicate that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity, it could be simple to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness in your home and mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be fixed, and it's often cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Always contact your company in writing, by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.