So , You've Bought Repairing Double Glazing ... Now What?
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 worth checking with the company you bought windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a simple process in certain instances. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass together. If one of the glass panes breaks it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage could result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a straightforward task that can be accomplished at home with just a few tools and materials. To begin, you must remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once the broken glass is removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive used to secure the broken glass to the window frame.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. After all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to fix it to the frame.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new pane of window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
Seals around the frame are likely be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a major issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and your windows are losing efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating as windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs you can watch for to help you prevent a drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice a breeze coming through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires resealing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indication that seals are failing.
The most straightforward method to get rid of a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a difficult job that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to repair your double-glazed windows that are leaking by using silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor resistance to heat and may leak again. It is worth trying, when there aren't any other options available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to break over time. This can be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way the windows are put in place. It is important to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows remain as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double-glazed window. You'll feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame meets the brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to be able to seep through. This could lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent option for homes that are trying to reduce energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting but they still require maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not dealt with quickly, it may result in mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This includes your windows. It isn't something to be concerned about, however it's recommended to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from forming.
But condensation isn't always the indication of a leaky seal and there are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may be leaking. Over time the seals made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals can wear down over time, leading them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesman can fix double-glazed windows that are prone to condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back into place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning in the way it should.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade helps you by providing local certified, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in the repair of double glazing. All you have to do is type in your postcode as well as the kind of tradesmen you require to get a list results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or as a result of collision damage, such as when children or pets play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill in the crack or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames which is not something you'd want to do 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 could be because of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is because the warm air inside your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler air outside, and so it can easily settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be corrected and, in most cases, it's cheaper than replacing your windows altogether. double glazing repairs near me glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, usually for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you start work. Be sure to contact your company in writing, by 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.