How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you spot a problem, it's worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to learn what their policy for repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be simple in some cases. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's outer and inner parts together. It is difficult to take out a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may also result in the loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To start take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag with acetone or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the new glass to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the gas that is thermally insulating is being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This can lead to expensive heating bills because your windows will not be as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you feel a breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal could have been damaged and require replacing. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass company to do this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and harm the glass.
In some 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 option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it is worthwhile if there is no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to break over time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age or the manner in which the windows are constructed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows remain as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can get in. In some cases this could result in damp patches appearing on walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. double glazing window repairs is often the first sign that a window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can result in the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a issue, but you should clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time, the rubber seals in windows with double glazing may wear out. They may eventually break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting It is essential to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and working in the way it should.
It is important to remember that fixing your double-glazed windows can be much less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. It's important to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help you find local verified, vetted, and inspected traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is enter your postcode and the type of tradesman you need to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has broken down. These seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. It is usually repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which is not something you want to take on your own unless you're a competent tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem such as warping. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the severity.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to hold moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good aspect is that these issues can be corrected, and it's often cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, either by mail or email, rather than text messages - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.