How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that covers them for up 20 years. If you do spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy is on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in some instances. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass in place. If one of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. double glazing repairs near me as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any traces left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
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 using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some windows use aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place 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 to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could mean you spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are warning signs to look out for to help stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when they're closed it could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be resealed. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another sign that seals are failing.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass firm to perform this job, as they can utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to repair leaky double glazed windows by using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
It is not uncommon to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to wear out over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age or the manner in which the windows are constructed. If this occurs it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. You will feel a draught around the frame's edges, especially where the frame meets the brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal been breached, allowing air to get through. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the mornings when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows. It isn't usually anything to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from spreading.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. This can cause them to break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation It is essential to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still be present. They will then apply a new seal to keep the gap airtight and working in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. But it's also important to find a reliable tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of your frame seals is broken when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. This is often fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames, which is not something you want to take on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem such as warping. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters through damaged double-glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will easily settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good news 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 guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you start work. Also, always contact your company in writing, via email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.