How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in some instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the glass's inner and outer together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may cause the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be accomplished at home using just the right tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After getting rid of the broken glass make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using a wire brush. After 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 place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows won't be as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs that you can look for to stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires sealing. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another indicator that seals are failing.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to complete the work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This is not the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it is worthwhile if there is no other options.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be the same 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 draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air can get in. This could result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic option for homes that are looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed immediately, it can lead mould growth and even to wood mold and even wood.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal, and there are many other causes why double-glazed windows might be misting up. Over time, the rubber seals in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals wear out over time, which causes them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows fixed promptly in the event that you observe any indications of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. Then, they'll apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a reputable tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repair s. All you need to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, and it's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to stop moisture infiltrating your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction of new window frames, which isn't something you want to take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue such as the sash bending or warping frame. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through windows that are damaged can cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will settle on surfaces such as windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be corrected, and it's often cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty usually for 10 or 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than a text message - this will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them about any issues that arise.