How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find an issue, it's best to check with the company that you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the glass's inner and outer together. It can be difficult to remove the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage can also lead to an energy loss, so it is important to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home with a few tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wipe the frame of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to fix it to the frame.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed then you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of the new window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This can lead you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
Luckily, there are some warning signs you should be aware of to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals are failing.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. But it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to have this work done and they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases, you might be able to fix your leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to fail over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that your windows are installed. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows remain as effective as when they were first put in place.
A draughty window is often the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. You will feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame meets the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great option for homes that are trying to reduce energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. They are durable and last a long time however they require regular maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a issue, but you should remove any visible condensation as quickly as possible to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. The rubber seals can wear down over time, leading them to break. double glazing window repairs will depressurize the air space between the glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting, it is important to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into its place. They will then push hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in performing repairs to double glazing. All you need to do is type in your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds 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 gap between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent water from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or impact damage from children or pets. It is usually repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of a build-up 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 bending or warping frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, it could be simple to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazing that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can fix these problems, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you begin work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than a text message - this will make things easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.