How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you find a problem it's a good idea to contact the company that supplied the windows to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may cause a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is an easy task that can be accomplished at home with a handful of tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of your new pane of window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as windows aren't as effective as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs to look out for to help keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires resealing. There may be condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work and they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution because it has poor resistance to heat and could leak again. It's worth a shot if there are no alternatives available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround your double glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are installed. When this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a draughty 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 wall. The seal has failed and air can get in. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They last for a long time and are durable, but they still require maintenance.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise and condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows could be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
To repair a double-glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before placing it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be present. double glazing repair near me will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. 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 the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could result from wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when pets or children play. This can often be fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which is not something you should take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be the result of a build-up of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the severity.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will easily settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you begin work. Always contact your company in writing, via mail or email, rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.