5 Tools Everyone Is In The Repairing Double Glazing Industry Should Be Using
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 supplied the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs.
In some cases, repairing your double glazing is an easy job. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes break, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This kind of damage can cause a decline in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix it quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple task that can be completed at home using the right tools and materials. To begin, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Make sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, as broken glass can contain dangerous shards. Once the glass that has broken is removed, wash the frame of the frame with a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points are gone then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped area where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Finally, prepare to install a new piece of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. Once the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in place against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's point. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious problem as it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch for that can assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're closed It could be due to the seal having broken and needs to be resealed. There may be condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. However this is a complicated task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. It is recommended to seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work in order to be able to utilize deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In some cases it is possible to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't the most ideal option because it lacks resistance to heat and could leak again. However, it is worth trying if you have no other options.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due to age, environmental conditions, or the way your windows are set up. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows remain the same as they were when they were first put in place.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double-glazed window. You'll feel an air draught at the frame's edges, especially where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air be able to seep through. In some instances this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, although this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great option for homeowners who want to cut down on energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the window's seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it can lead to the growth of mould and eventually wood mold and even wood.
Condensation is usually seen 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 worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows might leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window are prone to wear. They may eventually break, which can cause the air gap to be compressed between your glass panes. If you observe signs of condensation or misting, it is important to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back into place. They will then run hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new ones. However, it is essential to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders with experience in double glazing repairs . You only need to enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can result from wear and tear or as a result of injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. Most of the time, this can be fixed by a simple fix such as using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which isn't something you want to take on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it will easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that these issues can be repaired, and it's often cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years, though certain companies offer lifetime warranties and you should always verify what yours covers before you start working. Also, always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter rather than a text message - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.