How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you notice a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to learn what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a simple process in some cases. Here are the most common problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This type of damage may also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple job that can be done at home using a few materials and tools. To start remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After taking the broken glass off, make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty may be applied to the edges of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame, and seal the gap between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type, you will need to employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the outside of the new glass to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue as it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is losing efficiency. This could result in costly heating bills as your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to look for to assist you in stopping drafty window from becoming a problem. 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 resealed. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
To stop drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair your double-glazed windows which are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and could leak again. It's worth a try, if there are no other options available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way windows are constructed. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as effective as when they first came out.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air seep through. In certain cases this could result in damp patches appearing on walls, but this is not the norm.
double glazing repair glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time the point.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could result in mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation is usually seen in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rising that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not a major problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to avoid it from forming.
But it's not always a indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may 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 notice signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
To repair a double glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may be present. They will then apply a new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and functioning exactly as it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It's important to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected 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 you are looking for to get an overview.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by wear and tear or due to impact damage such as when children or pets play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with an easy repair like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which is not something you should take on your own unless you're a competent tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.
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 hold moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with double glazing or single-glazed that aren't properly sealed.
The good news 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 however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify 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 on any issues that may arise.