How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you notice problems, it's worth contacting the company that provided the windows to inquire about what their policy regarding repairs is.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be a simple task. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes break it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage could cause an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack fast and correctly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple job that can be done at home with a handful of materials and tools. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the window frame.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's glue to the glass's edge to fix it to the frame.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new glass to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame are likely to be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue as it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead to expensive heating bills because windows aren't as efficient as they were.
Luckily, there are warning signs to look out for to help stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed it could be due to the seal having been damaged and requires to be resealed. There may also be condensation forming 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. This is a difficult task that requires special tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to get this job done and they will be able to use deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to repair leaky double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't a great option as it doesn't provide a high resistance to heat and is susceptible to leaks in the future. However, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break over time. This can be due to the environment, age or the way the windows are put in place. If this happens, it is important to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is underperforming. A draught will likely be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, though this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising and condensation to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to avoid it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. South Ockendon window repairs made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear out over time. The rubber seals can wear down 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 crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane, before placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may still be lingering. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning in the way it should.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a trustworthy tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade helps you by providing local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode and the type of tradesmen you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals keep cold and 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 may break because of general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by children or pets. It is usually repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt in the track or a structural problem like warping. Depending on the severity, it could be simple to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good thing is that you are able to solve these issues, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter, not a text message - this will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.