How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you spot problems, it's worth contacting the company that supplied the windows to find out what their policy for repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is an easy job. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass in place. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix it quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be accomplished at home using the right tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep 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 instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to employ a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the surface of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows leak and the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue since it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is losing efficiency. This could result in costly heating bills since your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs you should be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when they're closed It could be because the seal has broken and needs to be replaced. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another indicator that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to have this work done, as they will be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to break over time. This can be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that windows are constructed. When this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. You'll feel drafts around the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. Ewell double glazing repairs has failed and air can seep in. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, though this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed immediately, it can lead the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This is the case for your windows. It's not a major issue, but it is important to remove any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the indication of a leaky seal, and there are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows might be misting up. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed may wear out. The rubber seals can wear out over time, causing them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation It is essential to get 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 in its place. They will then run hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing new windows. It is also essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes. It's vital to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. It is usually repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which is not something you'd want to do on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track or it could indicate that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity, this may be easy to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that these issues can be fixed and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, via mail or email, rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.