How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you spot a problem it's worth checking with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes break it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage could also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. After the broken glass has been removed, wash the frame of the frame using a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any traces left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the window frame.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all the glazing points are gone then 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 glazing compound. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's putty may be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame, and close the gap between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of 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 has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely to be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as your windows will not be as efficient as they were.
There are a few warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs replacing. There may also be condensation on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However, this is a difficult job that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to fix your leaky double-glazed windows using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. However, it is worth a try if you have no other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be due the environment, age or the way the windows are put in place. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows will be the same as they were when they were first put in place.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is underperforming. A draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air can be able to seep into. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require maintenance from time to some.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could result in the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising, which causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from setting in.
But condensation isn't always the sign of a failing seal, and there are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing are prone to wear. They may eventually break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double-glazed window with condensation tradesman will take off the damaged pane prior to installing it and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be lingering. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working in the way it should.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps you by providing local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in the repair of double glazing. All you need to do is type in your postcode along with the type of tradesperson you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the seals on your frame has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. It is often possible to fix the issue by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could result from a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem like warping. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the extent of the issue.
double glazing repair near me of moisture through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it will easily settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good part 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 typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will allow you to follow up on any issues that may arise.