How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you find problems you're looking to fix, contact the company that sold you the windows to find out what their policy for repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy job. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the glass's inner and outer together. It isn't easy to remove the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Make sure you wear gloves that are protective while doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.
double glazing repairs near me of windows employ vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. 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 in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. After the stop is removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold 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 very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows aren't as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows when they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires sealing. You may also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You may be able to repair your double-glazed windows that are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and it can leak again in the future. But, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to fail over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. If this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
A draughty window is often the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air can get in. In some instances this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent alternative for homeowners who wish to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to time.
A common issue that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can cause mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time, the rubber seals in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals may be worn out over time, leading them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesperson can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into its place. They will then run hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new 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 windows. However, it is essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to carry out the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs. All you need to do is type in your postcode as well as the kind of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has been damaged. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, so it's essential that you get these replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack 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 by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames which isn't something you should take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is 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 by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it is more likely to settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be repaired and is usually less expensive than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee 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 in the event that you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.