How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you purchased the windows from to determine what their policy is regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal in order to keep the outer and inner glass together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage can result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is an easy job that can be done at home using a few materials and tools. To begin, remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol 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 with the putty blade. After all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount glazier's glue to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
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, use a blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This could result in costly heating bills as windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are a few warning signs to be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice a slight breeze blowing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require replacing. There may also be condensation on the glass which is another sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to complete the work and they will be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases it is possible to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not an ideal solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and it can leak again in the future. However, it's worth a try if you have no other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals may fail in time. This could be due to the environment, age or the way the windows are put in place. It is crucial to replace the seals as quickly as you can so that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draught is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can seep in. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches appearing on walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to time.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can result in mould growth and even wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising, which causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from forming.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window can become worn. The rubber seals can wear down over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows repaired as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in the correct position. They will then run hot air through the gap in order to remove any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to keep the gap airtight and working in the way it should.
It is important to know that repairing your double glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. However, it is essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade helps by providing you with local, vetted and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. All you have to do is enter your postcode and the type of tradesmen you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken when you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. Most of the time, this can be fixed with a simple fix, such as using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're a skilled tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural problem such as warping. Depending on Rickmansworth double glazing repairs of the issue, this may be easy to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that you can fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow-up on any issues that may arise.