How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, it’s worth contacting the company that sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in some instances. Here are the most common issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the glass’s outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes cracks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage can also result in the loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be completed at home with just a few materials and tools. To begin, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left behind by the glue used to fix the broken glass to the window frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame before 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 position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier’s points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the exterior of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame could be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem since it means that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is losing efficiency. This can lead to expensive heating bills as windows aren’t as efficient as they were.
Luckily, there are warning signs to be aware of to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires replacing. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to get this job done and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations it is possible to repair leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not the best solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It’s worth a try, when there aren’t any other options.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can fail as time passes. This could be due to the environment, age or the way that windows are constructed. If this occurs it is crucial 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 put in.
double glaze repair near me glazing that isn’t performing well is usually evident by a draughty double glazed window. A draught will likely be felt around the edges of the frame at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can be able to seep into. This can sometimes lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require maintenance from time to some.
A common issue that double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn’t treated quickly, it could cause mould growth and even wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning as temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It’s usually not a problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to avoid it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time, the rubber seals in windows with double glazing may wear out. This can cause them to break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it’s crucial to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately when you notice signs of condensation or misting.
To repair a double glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that might be present. Then they will apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade helps by providing you with local, verified and checked tradesmen who are skilled in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed repairs glazed windows, it’s likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. The seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when children or pets play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you’re a skilled tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem such as warping. This can be easily fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as windows with single or double glazed window repairs near me glazing that aren’t sealed properly.
The good news is that you can repair these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify what yours covers before you begin work. Also, always contact your company in writing, via email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make things easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.