How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you notice a problem, it's worth contacting the company who supplied the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs is.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing can be a simple task. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage may cause a decline in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass may contain hazardous fragments. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame using an abrasive pad that is dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points have been removed clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame prior to installing the new pane. Once the glass and frame are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the new pane of glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue as it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This could mean you spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.
There are some warning signs to look for to assist you in stopping drafty window from developing. If Dover double glazing feel a breeze blowing through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. There may also be condensation appearing on the glass which is another sign that seals are failing.
To eliminate drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. But, this is a difficult job that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work and they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and could leak again. But, it's worth a try if you have no other options.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to break over time. This can be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as effective as when they were first put in place.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. There will be a draught around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame meets the brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to get through. In some cases this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, though this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic option for homes that are looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. They are durable and long-lasting but they still require maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a issue, but you should clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which can depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may still remain. They will then apply a new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. However, it is essential to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade makes this easy by supplying local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you have to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesperson you require 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 failed. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear or impact damage from pets or children. This is often fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be because of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track, or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue, such as the sash bending or warping frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good news is that these problems can be repaired and, in most cases, it's less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double-glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees - always check the terms of your guarantee before you start working. Always contact your company via email or letter instead of text message. This will make it easier to follow up with any issues that may arise.