How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you purchased windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in some cases. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. double glazing repairs near me of damage could also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using some tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag and alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Finally, prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the help of a wire brush. After the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. Once the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the surface of the new window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a very serious problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs that you can look for to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs resealing. You might also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are failing.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to do this task, since they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and damage the glass.
You may be able to repair double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and may leak again. However, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround the double-glazed windows to break over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are set up. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows are the same as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air seep through. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from forming.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear down over time. They may eventually break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation, it is important to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in place. They will then push hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning exactly as it should.
It is important to remember that repairing your double-glazed windows is a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. It is also essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to complete the task. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying you with local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in doing double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to get a list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when children or pets play. This is often fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which is not something you want to take on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. Based on the severity, it could be simple to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can solve these issues and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for a period of 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, via email or letter, not a text message - this will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.