How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you spot a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be an easy task in some cases. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes breaks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage could also result in 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 straightforward task that can be completed at home using a few tools and materials. To begin, remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wipe the frame of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left behind by the glue used to secure the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all the glazing points are removed, clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing 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 frame is clean then apply a small amount of glazier's glue to the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this type, you will need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without damaging it. After the stop is removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious problem since it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is becoming less efficient. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs that you can look for to keep a drafty window from developing. If you feel a breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could have been damaged and require sealing. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. But it is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to get this job done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
You may be able to repair double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no alternatives available.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can fail as time passes. This could be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are put in place. If this happens it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that isn't functioning properly is typically reflected by a draughty double glazed window. A draught will likely be felt along the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air can get in. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, however they require regular maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is often the first indication that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not dealt with quickly, it may lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning as air temperatures are warming and humidity levels are rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It's not usually a issue, but it is important to remove any visible condensation as soon as possible to prevent it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the indication of a leaky seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing may wear out. They may eventually break, which can reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you notice signs of condensation or misting, it is important to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back in place. They will then run hot air through the opening to eliminate any moisture. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help by supplying local, verified and checked tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, and it's essential that you get these replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or impact damage from children or pets. 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 the window frames. This is something that you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This can be a result of an accumulation of dust or dirt 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, it could be simple to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because warm air inside your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it can easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good part is that these issues can be repaired and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties be sure to check the terms of your guarantee before you start working. Be Double Glazing Window And Door Parts bromley to communicate with your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.