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 do spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing can be an easy job. Here are the most frequent problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage could also result in a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack fast and properly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To start take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing so, as any broken glass may contain dangerous fragments. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag and acetone or rub alcohol to clean the area around the frame. This will get rid of any adhesive residue.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, you can prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the use of a wire brush. Once the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind you'll need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the outside of your new pane of window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a major problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This could mean you pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for that can assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when they're closed, it could be because the seal has broken and needs to be replaced. There may be condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals have failed.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact an experienced glass company to do this task, since they can use deglazing equipment to remove the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't have good heat resistance and is susceptible to leaks in the future. It's worth a shot when there aren't any alternatives available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around your double glazed windows to fail over time. This can be caused by environmental conditions, age or the way in which the windows are constructed. When this happens, it is important to replace the seals immediately to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first installed.
A draughty window is often the most obvious indication that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. You'll feel an air draught at the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame meets the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to get through. This could cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they still require maintenance.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's not usually a issue, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from setting in.
Condensation is not always a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows might leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows get worn out over time. They may eventually break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into its place. They will then run hot air through the opening to eliminate 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 can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new windows. However, it is essential to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive a list.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the frame seals has been damaged. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by general wear and tear or due to injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. This is often fixed with a simple repair like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe, you may need to replace your window frames. Waltham Abbey double glazing repairs is something that you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it can be difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. Based on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The moisture that gets into your home through windows that are damaged 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 get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be corrected and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check what yours covers before you start working. Be sure to communicate with your company in writing, via mail or email, rather than text messages - this will make it easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.