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 spot problems, you should check with the company you bought the windows from to determine what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be a simple process in some cases. Here are some of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and correctly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with just a few tools and materials. To begin remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves when doing so, as any broken glass may contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rub alcohol to clean the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all the glazing points are gone then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane joins the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Some windows utilize vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type you'll need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. After the stop has been removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the outside of the new glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. 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 mean you pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
There are some warning signs to look out for that will aid in preventing drafty window from developing. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows when they are closed, the seal might be damaged and requires sealing. There may be condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass firm to perform this task, since they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and damage the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and it can leak again in the future. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows may fail over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are set up. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first came out.
A draughty window is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is underperforming. There will be drafts around the frame's edges, where the frame joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to get in. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time the point.
A common issue that double glazed windows experience is condensation. It is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can result in mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea remove any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from setting in.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation, it is important to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into the correct position. They will then blow hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying local, verified and checked tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs . All you have to do is enter your postcode and the type of tradesperson you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken If you hear crackling sounds or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's essential that you get these replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture entering your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or impact damage from children or pets. Most of the time, this can be fixed with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace your window frames. This is something is not something you should attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another issue with 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 be an indication that there is a structural issue, such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. It can be resolved by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it is more likely to get trapped on surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
The good news is that you can fix these problems, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check the coverage of your window prior to you start work. Always communicate with your company in writing, via email or letter, not a text message - this will make things easier in the event that you need to follow-up with them regarding any issues that arise.