How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you find an issue, it's best to check with the company you purchased windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage can also result in a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with the right tools and materials. To begin, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, as any broken glass may contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using the putty blade. After all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned, apply a small amount of glazier's putty on the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this type then you'll need use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without ruining it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the exterior of your new pane of window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a major problem because it means that all the gas that is thermally insulating is being released and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows won't be as efficient as they were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for that can help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when they're closed, it could be because the seal has broken and must be resealed. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done in order to be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution because it has poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a try, in the event that there are no alternatives available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to wear out over time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age or the way in which your windows are installed. If this occurs it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
A draughty window is often the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, but this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first sign that a window seal is failing. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows with double glazing can become worn. The rubber seals can wear out over time, causing them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows fixed as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation tradesman will take off the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still be present. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and functioning in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade helps you by providing local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in double glazing repairs . You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged if you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or impact damage from children or pets. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
A common double-glazing problem is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural issue like warping. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that these problems can be corrected, and it's often cheaper to do so than replacing your windows completely. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check what yours covers before you start working. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, via email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.