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 notice an issue, it's worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to find out what their policy for repairs is.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass together. It can be difficult to remove the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may also lead to the loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack fast and in a timely manner.
Repairing cracked glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with just a few tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wash the frame of the frame using an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points using the putty blade. After all glazing points are gone then clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are of this type then you'll need employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop is removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the exterior of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals are failing.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is best to consult a professional glass firm to perform this work, as they can use deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not cause damage to the glass.
In certain cases it is possible to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no other options.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to break over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way windows are constructed. If this occurs it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is underperforming. You will feel an air draught at the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or surrounding wall. The seal has failed and air can get in. In certain cases this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time the point.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
double glazing repairs occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time, the rubber seals in windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals may wear out over time, leading them to break. This can cause the air gap to become depressurized. air space between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into its place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to remember that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to complete the task. 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 tradesperson you require to get a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by children or pets. Most of the time, this can be fixed by a simple fix like using silicone to fill 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 skilled in the trades.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is difficult to open or close. This could result from a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue such as warping. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company via email or letter, rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that may arise.