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 it's a good idea to contact the company that sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing could be simple in some cases. Here are the most frequent problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to keep the glass's inner and outer together. It can be difficult to remove the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also result in a loss of energy efficiency, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and properly.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be done at home with some tools and materials. To begin, you must remove all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the window frame.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using a wire brush. Once the frame is clean, apply a small amount glazier's glue to the edge of the glass to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Some windows use aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If Bedford double glazing repair -glazed windows are of this type, use a blade to cut through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. Once the stop is removed, apply a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking and the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue since it means that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This could cause you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are warning signs that you can be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may have broken and needs sealing. There may be condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals have failed.
The simplest way to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult task that requires special tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass firm to perform this work, as they can use deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not harm the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal option because it lacks heat resistance and can leak again. However, it is worth trying if you have no other option available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to fail over time. This could be due to environmental conditions, age or the manner in which the windows are constructed. If this happens, it is important to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly is typically reflected by a drafty double-glazed window. There will be a draught around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame joins the brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to seep through. In certain cases this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, although this is less common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and increase the insulation of their homes. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise that causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea remove any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows with double glazing are prone to wear. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. If you notice signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that may remain. Then, they'll apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that repairing your double-glazed windows is a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new ones. It is crucial to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade assists you by offering local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is enter your postcode and the type of tradesperson you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one your frame seals is broken if you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's vital to get them replaced as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear or from impact damage caused by children or pets. It is usually repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage may require the insertion of new window frames which is not something you'd want to do on your own unless you're skilled tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be because of the accumulation of dust or dirt that has gotten 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 and mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, so it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that these issues can be corrected and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for 10 or 20 years, but certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check what yours covers before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.