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 spot problems, it's worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to find out what their policy for repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be simple in some cases. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore important to repair it quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple job that can be done at home with the right tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Make sure you wear protective gloves while doing so, as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside as well as the an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to fix it to the frame.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind then you'll need employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. Once the stop has been 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
Seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue as it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are double glazing repairs near me can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when closed, it could be due to the seal having broken and must be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
The most straightforward method to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair leaky double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a shot when there aren't any other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can break as time passes. This could be due to age, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are installed. If this happens, it is important to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draft is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to get in. In certain cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, although this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to the point.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first sign that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can result in mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's a good idea wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows might be misting up. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. They may eventually break, which can depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows repaired promptly when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before putting it back in place and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be lingering. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working exactly as it should.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade helps you by providing local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has been damaged. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, and it's vital to get them 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 children or pets. It is usually repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem like warping. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the severity.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can repair these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty usually for 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you start working. Always communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.