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 an issue, it's best to check with the company that you bought them from to see what their policy is on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are some of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the inner and outer glass together. It can be difficult to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage can result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix it quickly and efficiently.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home using some tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with alcohol 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 that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind you'll need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape 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 problem since it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills as windows aren't as efficient as they were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to be aware of to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed It could be due to the seal having broken and must be replaced. You might also notice condensation on the glass which is another sign that seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact an experienced glass company to complete this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
You might be able to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This is not an ideal option as it doesn't have a good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. It's worth a shot in the event that there are no alternatives available.
double glazing repair near me on double-glazed windows made of rubber may fail as time passes. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which windows are constructed. If this happens it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can 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 first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. There will be drafts around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air get through. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to the point.
One of the most frequent issues windows with double glazing experience is condensation. Condensation is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising, which causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't something to worry about, but it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which can reduce the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane before putting it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may still be present. They will then apply an entirely new seal to keep the gap airtight and working as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in doing double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken when you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. It is usually repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which is not something you want to take on your own unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. Based on the severity, it could be simple to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home and mould and condensation. This is because the warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be fixed and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows altogether. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify what yours covers before you begin work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text message. This will allow you to follow up with any issues that may arise.