How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you find a problem, it's worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to learn what their policy for repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in some cases. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass in place. If one of the glass panes break, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage can cause a decline in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is a simple job that can be done at home with a few tools and materials. To begin, take out all loose pieces of broken glass. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag with alcohol or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will eliminate any adhesive residue.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using a wirebrush and then clean 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 edges of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame, and seal the gap between the frames.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double glazed windows are made of this type you'll need to employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape on the outside of the new glass to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame could be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a major problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to pay more for heating as your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs you can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from forming. If you feel a breeze coming through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might be damaged and requires resealing. There may also be condensation forming on the glass which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. But, this is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to ensure that you don't damage 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 equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to repair your double-glazed windows that leak by using silicone putty. This isn't a great option as it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. It is worth trying, if there are no other options available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to fail over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age or the way in which the windows are constructed. If this happens it is essential to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a draughty double glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. This can sometimes lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent alternative for homeowners who wish to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They last for a long time and are durable, but they do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can cause mould growth and even wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It isn't something to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.
Condensation isn't always a sign of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window are prone to wear. They may eventually break, which can depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows fixed as soon as possible when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that may remain. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and working in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to get a list results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or damage caused by collisions with pets or children. Often this can be remedied with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames, which is not something you should take on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
window repair Canvey Island with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of an accumulation 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 the sash bending or warping frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, it could be simple to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it can easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been 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 typically covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that might arise.