How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you spot a problem it's a good idea to contact the company who sold you the windows to learn what their policy regarding repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a simple process in some cases. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes cracks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Make sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shards. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Remove any remaining glazing points using the putty blade. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind then you'll need employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without damaging it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new window to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the gas that is thermally insulating is leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient 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 feel a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal could have been damaged and require sealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are not working properly.
Double Glazing Window Repairs poole to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. However this is a complicated task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended that you get in touch with a professional glazing firm to have this work done, as they will be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't provide a high resistance to heat and could leak again in the future. But, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break in time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age, or the way the windows are constructed. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows are as effective as when they were first put in place.
A window that is drafty is often the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air can seep in. This could result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great option for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to the point.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to 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 includes your windows. It's not a major issue, but it is important to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to avoid it from forming.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately in the event that you observe any signs of misting or condensation.
To repair a double-glazed window with condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that might be lingering. Then they will apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that repairing your double-glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is also essential to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade makes this easy by providing you with local, vetted and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive a list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken If you hear crackling sounds or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. This is often repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're an experienced 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 dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that these problems can be fixed and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than a text message - this will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.