15 Reasons To Not Overlook Repairing Double Glazing
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 supplied the windows to learn what their policy regarding repairs.
In some instances, fixing your double glazing is a simple task. Here are some of the most frequent problems that can be solved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass in place. If one of the glass panes breaks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This type of damage may result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be accomplished at home with the right tools and materials. To begin, take out all loose pieces of broken glass. Make sure to wear protective gloves while doing so, as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After the broken glass has been removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using the putty blade. After all the glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space between where the window pane meets the frame to ensure they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Clean the old glass with an electric brush and the new frame before installing the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's putty can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame, and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some types of windows use vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the glass's surface to protect the new glass to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak and the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas being released and windows are losing their efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require sealing. You may 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 job that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. You should contact an experienced glass company to complete this job, as they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and not harm the glass.
In certain situations you may be able to door repair leaky double glazed windows by using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not an ideal solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and is susceptible to leaks in the future. It is worth trying, if there are no other options.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to break over time. This could be due age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are put in place. If this occurs it is essential to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A draughty window is often the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. A draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame, at the point where it joins brickwork or wall. This is because the seal been breached, allowing air to seep through. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches appearing on walls, although this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and long-lasting but they do require some maintenance.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. It is often the first sign that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not addressed quickly, it can cause the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation occurs most often in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase and water vapour begins to form. This includes your windows and isn't something to worry about, but it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can to prevent it from spreading.
However, it's not always the indicator of a failed seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals wear out over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you observe signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane, before installing it and double glazing repairs running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still be present. They will then apply an additional seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. But it's also important to find a reliable tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade assists you by offering local certified, vetted and verified traders with experience in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is type in your postcode along with the type of tradesperson you require to get a list results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of your frame seals is broken if you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could result from wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. It is often possible to fix the issue with an easy door repair like using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames which is not something you'd want to do on yourself unless you are a competent tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This can be a result of a build-up of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track, or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the severity.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness inside your home, and mold and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that you can fix these problems and it can be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees - always check the coverage of your window prior to you start work. Also, always contact your company in writing, by email or letter, not text messages - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.