How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company that you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If double glazing repairs near me of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage can also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore important to fix it quickly and correctly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be accomplished at home with a handful of materials and tools. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag and alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's putty may be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place, instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of tape that is strong to the outside of the new glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs that you can be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires resealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another sign that seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. But this is a complicated job that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to complete this task, since they can utilize deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not cause damage to the glass.
It is possible to fix your double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a shot in the event that there are no other options.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to wear out over time. This can be caused by age, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are installed. If this occurs it is essential to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air to seep through. In certain cases this may result in damp patches on the walls, though this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first sign that a window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a issue, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the sign of a failing seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows might be misting up. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows repaired as soon as possible when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane before placing 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 an entirely new seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning as it should be.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows can be much less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. But it's also important to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade helps by providing you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who are skilled in doing double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to get an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, and it's vital to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which isn't something you want to take on yourself unless you're a competent tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result 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. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the severity.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness inside your home and mould and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it is more likely to be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good news is that you can solve these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty prior to beginning work. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow-up with them about any issues that arise.