How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find problems you're looking to fix, contact the company that supplied the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs is.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are the most frequent problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal in order to keep the outer and inner glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This type of damage can cause an energy loss, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and properly.
double glazing repairs cracked glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using a few tools and materials. To do so, first remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing this, since broken glass could contain dangerous shards. Once the broken glass is removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left behind by the glue used to fix the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame, and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type then you'll need employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the gas that is thermally insulating is being released and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead you to spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are warning signs you should be aware of to stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs resealing. There may be condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to do this task, since they can use deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, in the event that there are no alternatives available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to fail over time. This could be due to environmental conditions, age, or the way your windows are installed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be the same as they were when they were first put in place.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double-glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to get through. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great option for homes that are seeking to reduce their energy bills and increase the insulation of their homes. They are durable and long-lasting but they do require some maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues windows with double glazing experience is condensation. Condensation is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from setting in.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal and there are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows wear out over time. The rubber seals can be worn out over time, leading them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting It is essential to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before putting it back in place and running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that might remain. Then, they'll apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in performing repairs to double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes. It's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can result from wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. It is often possible to fix the issue with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem like warping. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows 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 double glazing or single-glazed that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that you can fix these problems and it can be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Always contact your company via email or letter instead of text messages. This will allow you to follow-up with any issues that may arise.