How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find a problem, it's worth contacting the company that supplied the windows to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage can cause a decline in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to repair it quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with the right tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed clean the backside and l-shaped space of 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 little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some windows use vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to support the glass instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the surface of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is becoming less efficient. This can result in expensive heating bills as your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows when they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs resealing. You may also notice condensation forming on the glass which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best solution because it has poor resistance to heat and could leak again. It's worth a shot when there aren't any other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail as time passes. This could be due the environment, age or the way windows are constructed. If this happens, it is important to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can seep in. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time time.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a problem, but you should remove any visible condensation as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows with double glazing can become worn. double glazing repair can wear down over time, leading them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation It is essential to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be present. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning exactly as it should.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be much less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. But it's also important to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames which is not something you want to take on yourself 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 the accumulation of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue such as the sash bending or warping frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, it could be simple to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be corrected and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, but some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you start working. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will allow you to follow up on any issues that might arise.