How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts up to 20 years. If you notice a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who supplied the windows to learn what their policy regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass in place. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could cause an energy loss, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and correctly.
It is a good thing that repairing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy task that can be completed at home using just some tools and materials. To begin, you must remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Make sure you wear protective gloves while doing so, as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This could cause you to spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to be aware of to prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed It could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. You may also notice condensation forming on the glass which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to complete this work, as they can use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and cause damage to the glass.
You might be able to repair double-glazed windows which are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it's worth trying if you have no other options.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to break over time. This can be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are put in place. If this happens it is crucial to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is not performing to its best. There will be an air draught at the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. This could result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to some.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first sign that a window seal has failed. If double glazing repair near me isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from setting in.
However, it's not always the indicator of a failed seal and there are other causes why double-glazed windows might be misting up. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window are prone to wear. The rubber seals can wear down over time, causing them to break. This can cause the air gap to become depressurized. air gap between the 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.
A tradesman can repair a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working as it should be.
It is important to note that repairing your double glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman who can do the work. Checkatrade helps you by providing local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to get a list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to stop water from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by pets or children. It is often possible to fix the issue with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something you should not attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue such as warping. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler outside air, so it is more likely to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good thing is that you are able to fix these problems, and it will often be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty prior to beginning work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow-up with any issues that may arise.