How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find problems you're looking to fix, contact the company that sold you the windows to learn what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in some cases. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner glass in place. If one of the glass panes breaks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage could cause the loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To do so, first remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, since broken glass can contain dangerous shards. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. After all glazing points are gone, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a little of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and seal the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the surface of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows aren't as efficient as they were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will aid in preventing drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require resealing. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass which is another indicator that seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to have this work done and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't provide a high resistance to heat and it can leak again in the future. It's worth a try, in the event that there are no alternatives available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail in time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age or the manner in which the windows are constructed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can 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 draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to be able to seep into. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time time.
One common problem that double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could result in mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's not a major issue, but it is important to remove any visible condensation as quickly as possible to prevent it from forming.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows could be leaking. double glazing repairs made of rubber on double-glazed windows can get worn out over time. This could cause them to break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows repaired immediately if you notice any signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into place. They will then blow hot air through the opening to remove any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working exactly as it should.
It is important to know that repairing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps you by providing local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in the repair of double glazing. All you have to do is enter your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, and it's important to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by 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 a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive and extensive, you may have to replace your window frames. This is something that 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 result from a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem such as warping. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the severity.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it can easily get trapped on surfaces such as double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can solve these issues and it can be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you begin work. Always contact your company in writing, either by mail or email, rather than a text message - this will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.