How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you do spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in some instances. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may cause an energy loss which is why it is essential to repair the crack as quickly and properly.
Fortunately, repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be done at home using 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 this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame and seal the gap between the frames.
Some types of windows use vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue as it means that all of the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could cause you to pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
There are some warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when closed, it could be due to the seal having been damaged and requires to be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. But it is a challenging 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 and they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and could leak again. But, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can break in time. This could be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. If this occurs it is essential to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that is not performing well is usually evident by a draughty double glazed window. A draught will likely be felt along the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or the surrounding wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air seep through. This can sometimes lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time some.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation is usually seen in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising and condensation to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's usually not a issue, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. The rubber seals can wear out over time, causing them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows fixed promptly when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still be present. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to know that repairing your double glazed windows can be much less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade assists you by offering local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs . You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to get the list.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, so it's vital to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fractures that crack could result from wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with an easy repair like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace the window frames. This is something that is not something you should attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is difficult to open or close. This can be a result of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as the sash bending or warping frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because the warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it is more likely to settle on surfaces like double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that you can repair these issues and it can be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that may arise.