How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts up to 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you purchased the windows from to determine what their policy is on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be a simple process in some cases. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. double glazing window repairs of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and correctly.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home with the right tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear protective gloves while doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shards. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag and acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using the putty blade. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's putty on the glass's edge to fix it to the frame.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame could be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a very serious problem as it means all the gas that is thermally insulating is being released and windows are losing their efficiency. This could cause you to spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are warning signs to be aware of to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed It could be due to the seal having broken and must be resealed. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass which is another indication that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to complete this job, as they can utilize deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and not harm the glass.
You might be able to repair double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not the best solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it's worth a try if you have no other options.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to wear out 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 replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is underperforming. There will be drafts around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame meets the brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air seep through. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time time.
One of the most frequent issues double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows. It's not usually a problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to avoid it from forming.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time, the rubber seals in windows that are double-glazed can become worn. This can cause them to break, which can reduce the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesman can repair a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into its place. They will then push hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that repairing your double-glazed windows can be a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. However, it is essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Damage
If you notice 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 keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as quickly as you can in order to stop water from getting into your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by children or pets. It is usually fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue such as warping. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. This is because the warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that these problems can be repaired and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty that typically lasts for a period of 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.