How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, you should check with the company you bought the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Fortunately, fixing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, take out all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. 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 remove any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all the glazing points have been removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the frame is clean, apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to fix it to the frame.
Certain kinds of windows utilize vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type, you will need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. After the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold strip to the surface of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaks out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills since windows aren't as effective as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs you should look for to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs resealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another indication that seals are failing.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated job that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution because it has poor resistance to heat and may leak again. However, it is worth trying if you have no other option available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to fail over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the way your windows are installed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as efficient as they were when they first came out.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious indication that your double glazing is underperforming. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to be able to seep into. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, though this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows. It's not usually a issue, but it is important to remove any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from forming.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows could be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. If you observe signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into its place. They will then blow hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by supplying you with local, vetted and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive the list.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. double glazing repairs near me keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture entering your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which is not something you should take on your own unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of an accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.
Moisture that enters your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be corrected and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Always contact your company in writing, via 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.