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 find a problem it's worth checking with the company that you bought the windows from to determine what their policy on repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing can be an easy task. Here are the most common problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass in place. If one of the glass panes cracks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage can cause an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be accomplished at home using a few tools and materials. To start remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as any broken glass may contain dangerous shards. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty blade. Once all the glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane is joined to the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glass compound. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using a wire brush. Once the glass and frame are clean, a small amount 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.
Certain windows employ vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed, apply a strip of tape that is strong to the surface of the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue as it means that all of the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This can lead you to pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs you should look out for to help stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed, it could be due to the seal having broken and must be replaced. There may also be condensation on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are not working properly.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. It is worth trying, in the event that there are no other options available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to wear out over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are constructed. When this happens, it is important to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double glazed window. A draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air can be able to seep into. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, however they require regular maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could result in mold growth, and possibly wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows and isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from spreading.
However, it's not always the sign of a failing seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows could be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows that are double-glazed can become worn. The rubber seals may wear down over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows repaired promptly when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then blow hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs . All you have to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to receive a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has been damaged. The seals keep cold 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.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. This can often be repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
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 dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem like warping. Based on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness inside your home and mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, and so it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.
The good part is that you can fix these problems, and it will often be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty prior to beginning work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by mail or email, rather than text messages - this will make things easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.