How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you spot problems, you should check with the company you purchased them from to see what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a simple process in certain instances. Here are the most frequent problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may also lead to a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack fast and properly.
Repairing broken double glazing New Addington in double-glazed windows is an easy task that can be completed at home with a handful of materials and tools. To begin, remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass may contain hazardous shards. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to remove any traces left behind by the glue used to fix the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all the glazing points have been removed, clean the backside 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 glass compound. Clean the old glass using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this type you'll need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame without damaging it. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new glass to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak and the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs that you can be aware of to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed, it could be due to the seal having broken and must be resealed. You may also notice condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. But, this is a difficult task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to do this task, since they will be able to use deglazing equipment to remove the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
You might be able to repair your double-glazed windows that are leaking with silicone putty. 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.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail in time. This could be due the environment, age or the way that windows are constructed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can so that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first came out.
A window that is drafty is often the most obvious sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draft is likely to be felt along the edges of the frame where it joins the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air is able to get in. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great option for homes that are seeking to reduce their energy bills and increase the insulation of their homes. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time the point.
One of the most frequent issues windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's not usually a issue, but it is important to remove any visible condensation as quickly as possible to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows with double glazing may wear out. They may eventually break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows repaired immediately if you notice any indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before installing it and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that may be lingering. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much 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 tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. You only need to enter your postcode, then select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold water out of the space between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent water from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. This is often fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the insertion of new window frames which is not something you want to take on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be because of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track, or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as the sash bending or warping frame. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that enters through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good thing is that you are able to repair these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Also, always communicate with your company in writing, by mail or email, rather than a text message - this will make it easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.