How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you do spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you bought them from to see what their policy is on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage can result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy task that can be completed at home using just a few tools and materials. To begin, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with acetone or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all the glazing points have been removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to employ a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging it. After the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the exterior of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is being released and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will aid in preventing 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 replaced. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indication that seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to complete the work in order to be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not the best option because it lacks heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a shot in the event that there are no alternatives available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to fail over time. This can be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are put in place. If this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they 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 along the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. This is because the seal been breached, allowing air to get through. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners trying to reduce energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear out over time. This can cause them to break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows fixed as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of misting or condensation.
To repair a double glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that may be lingering. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and working exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience carrying out double glazing repairs . You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are looking for to get the list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other strange noises coming from your double-glazed windows, it's a sign that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, and it's important to get them replaced as soon as you can to stop moisture infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when pets or children play. It is often possible to fix the issue by a simple fix like using silicone to fill 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 is not something you should attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of an accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a simple issue to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can 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 settle on surfaces such as windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't sealed properly.
The good thing is that you are able to solve these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the coverage of your window prior to you start working. Always contact your company via email or letter rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow-up on any issues that may arise.