How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find a problem, it's worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's inner and outer together. If one of the glass panes breaks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This type of damage can also lead to the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with some tools and materials. To start remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem as it means all the gas that is thermally insulating is leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from becoming a problem. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. But this is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. You should contact a professional glass company to do this work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the seals that were previously used and not harm the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking with silicone putty. This is not the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it is worth a try if you have no other option available.
It is not uncommon to see the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to fail over time. This could be due the environment, age or the way in which windows are constructed. If this occurs, it is important to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to be able to seep through. This can cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first indication that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't dealt with quickly, it may lead to mould growth and even wood decay.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals can wear out over time, which causes them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation It is essential to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into the correct position. They will then run hot air through the gap to eliminate 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 reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade assists you by offering local certified, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in the repair of double glazing. All you need to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesman you need to receive a list of 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 frame seals has been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or impact damage from pets or children. This can often be fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be the result of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue, such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that these problems can be repaired, and it's often cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. double glazing window repairs with double glazing are typically covered by a warranty that typically lasts for a period of 10 to 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow-up with any issues that may arise.