How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you purchased them from to see what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be an easy task in certain instances. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's inner and outer together. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may also lead to an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to repair the crack as quickly and correctly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with a handful of materials and tools. To start remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves as broken glass may contain hazardous shards. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type then you'll need make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without ruining it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
double glazing repairs that leak
The seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This could cause you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs that you can be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs sealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated job that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is best to consult an expert glass firm to perform this work, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals and damage the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair leaky double-glazed windows with a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. However, it's worth trying if you have no other option available.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can break as time passes. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that the windows are put in place. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows remain as effective as when they were first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air to be able to seep through. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, however they require regular maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign 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 decay.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the sign of a failing seal, and there are many other causes why double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time, the rubber seals in windows with double glazing may wear out. This could cause them to break, which will then cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation, it is important 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 into the correct position. They will then push hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. It is crucial to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps by supplying local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find an overview.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These 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 stop water from getting into your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by pets or children. This is often repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding 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 a skilled tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem like warping. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be fixed and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make things easier in the event that you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.