10 Things Everyone Hates About Repairing Double Glazing
How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find a problem it's a good idea to contact the company who sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy on repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out the glass pane that has broken without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also lead to a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home with a handful of tools and materials. To start, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves when doing so, as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once Double Glazing Repair broken glass is removed, wipe the frame of the frame with a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue left behind by the glue that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty blade. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame, and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood, or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious problem because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could result in costly heating bills since your windows will not be as effective as they once were.
Luckily, there are warning signs that you can be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires resealing. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to get rid of a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. But, this is a difficult job that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done, as they will be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases you may be able to fix your leaky double-glazed windows using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. But, it's worthwhile if there is no other option available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can break in time. This could be due age, environmental conditions or the way your windows are installed. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins with the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to get in. In certain cases this could result in damp patches appearing on walls, though this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great option for homeowners who want to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they do require some maintenance.
One common problem that double glazed windows experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first sign that the seal on the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise and condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a issue, but it is important to wipe off any visible condensation as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.
Condensation is not always a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window are prone to wear. This could cause them to break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in place. They will then run hot air through the opening to get rid of any moisture. Then they will apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be much cheaper than buying and installing new windows. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade assists you by offering local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to receive a list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other strange noises coming from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as quickly as you can in order to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when children or pets play. It is usually repaired with a simple fix by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which isn't something you should take on yourself unless you're a competent tradesman.
Another issue that is common to double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This can be a result of the 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. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good part is that these issues can be repaired and is usually cheaper to do so than replacing your windows altogether. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty that typically lasts for 10 or 20 years, but some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check the coverage of your window prior to you begin work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than sending a text message. This will make it easier if you have to follow up with them about any issues that arise.