How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing can be a simple process in some cases. Here are the most common issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass in place. If one of the glass panes break it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage may also lead to an energy loss which is why it is essential to repair the crack as quickly and correctly.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home with a handful of tools and materials. To begin, take out any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing this, since any broken glass may contain dangerous fragments. After taking the broken glass off, use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are gone, clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain types of windows employ vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type then you'll need employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of tape that is strong to the surface of the new pane of glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it means that all of the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is becoming less efficient. This can result in expensive heating bills since your windows will not be as efficient as they were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed it could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be replaced. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another indicator that the seals are not working properly.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done in order to be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. It's worth a shot when there aren't any alternatives available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to fail over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. If this occurs it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. There will be a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame joins the brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to get through. In certain cases, this can lead to damp patches on the walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners trying to reduce energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a issue, but it is important to wipe off any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
However, it's not always the sign of a failing seal, and there are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed may wear out. The rubber seals may wear down over time, causing them to break. This will depressurize the air space between the glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can repair double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working exactly as it should.
Repairing double glazing repairs -glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. It's important to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and checked tradesmen who have experience performing repairs to double glazing. All you have to do is enter your postcode and the type of tradesmen you require to get a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has broken down. The seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by pets or children. This can often be fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another issue with 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 gotten stuck in the track, or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or 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 enters your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be fixed and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. 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 before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make it easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.