How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you do spot problems, you should check with the company that you bought them from to see what their policy is regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be a simple task. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass together. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage could cause a loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home using just a few tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shards. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all the glazing points are removed then clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped area where the window pane joins 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 with a wire brush. Once the glass and frame are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows use vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type, you will need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. Once the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the exterior of the new window to avoid further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue since it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is becoming less efficient. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs to look out for that will aid in preventing drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed It could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be replaced. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals have failed.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. You should contact an experienced glass company to do this job, as they can utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
It is possible to repair your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This is not an ideal option as it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. However, it's worth trying if you have no other option available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as efficient as they were when they were first put in place.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double glazed window. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air can be able to seep into. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, although this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to the point.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that a window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can cause mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels are rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from spreading.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear down over time. The rubber seals may be worn out over time, which causes them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting, it is important to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
To repair a double glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that might remain. They will then apply a new seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade helps by providing you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repair s. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from entering your home.
Cracking in the frames can result from wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. It is often possible to fix the issue with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the introduction of new window frames which isn't something you should take on yourself unless you're a competent tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could result from a buildup of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem such as warping. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.
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 cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Also, always contact your company in writing, by mail or email, rather than text messages - this will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.