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 notice an issue you're looking to fix, contact the company who provided the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in some cases. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the glass's inner and outer together. It is difficult to take out the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This type of damage may cause a decline in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and correctly.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple job that can be accomplished at home using a few tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with acetone or rub alcohol to clean the the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all the glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane meets the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, you can prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using a wire brush. Once the frame is clean then apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Certain windows employ vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are of this kind you'll need to employ a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without ruining the frame. After the stop is removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious problem since it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills as windows aren't as efficient as they were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glass company to complete this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
In certain cases it is possible to fix your leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not an ideal solution since it doesn't provide a high resistance to heat and could leak again in the future. But, it's worth trying if you have no other option available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that windows are constructed. When this happens it is essential to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first put in.
A draughty window is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draft is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air is able to get in. This can result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they still require maintenance.
A common issue that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't dealt with quickly, it may result in mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels rise which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from forming.
Condensation is not always a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows might leak. Rubber seals on double-glazed windows can wear out over time. This could cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. double glazing Acton is the reason it's vital to have your double-glazed windows repaired promptly if you notice any signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in its place. They will then push hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. Then they will apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing new windows. It's important to find a trustworthy tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesperson you require to get a list results.
Frame Damage
If you notice 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 been damaged. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, and it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can result from wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when children or pets play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which isn't something you should take on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of a build-up of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge dependent on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness in your home and mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazing that aren't properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for a period of 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you begin work. Always contact your company via email or letter, instead of text messages. This will allow you to follow up on any issues that might arise.