How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that covers them for up 20 years. If you find a problem, it's worth contacting the company who sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in certain instances. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal to keep the outer and inner glass together. It is difficult to take out a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage can also result in the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack fast and in a timely manner.
It is a good thing that repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward job that can be accomplished at home using some tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves when doing so, as broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once the broken glass is removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points with a putty blade. After all the glazing points are removed then clean the backside of the window frame and the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help of a wire brush. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edge of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain kinds of windows utilize aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double glazed windows are of this kind, you will need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying it. Once the stop is removed, place a strip of tape that is strong to the outside of the new glass to help prevent any further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame are likely be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue because it indicates that all the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and your window is losing efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows won't be as efficient as they were.
There are some warning signs you can watch for to assist you in stopping drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when closed It could be because the seal has broken and must be resealed. There may be condensation on the glass that is a sign that the seals have failed.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. But this is a complicated task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. It is recommended to contact an expert glass company to complete this job, as they can use deglazing equipment to take off the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
In certain situations you may be able to repair your leaking double glazed windows by using silicone putty to fill the gaps. This is not an ideal option as it doesn't have good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. It's worth a shot when there aren't any alternatives available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround the double-glazed windows to wear out over time. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are constructed. If this occurs it is essential to have the seals replaced as soon as you can to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they first installed.
Double glazing that is not working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double glazed window. There will be an air draught at the frame's edges, where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air to be able to seep through. In some instances this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, but this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for homeowners who wish to cut down on energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting but they still require maintenance.
One common problem that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal on the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood decay.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's usually not a issue, but it is important to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failed window seal. There are a variety of reasons why your double-glazed windows might leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which can reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you see signs of condensation or misting it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows fixed 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 the correct position. They will then blow hot air through the opening to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. However, it is essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to complete the task. Checkatrade can help by supplying you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who have experience doing double glazing repairs. All you need to do is input your postcode as well as the kind of tradesperson you require to get a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one the seals in your frame has broken If you hear crackling sounds or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes. It's essential that you get these replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture entering your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. This is often repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe and extensive, you may have to replace your window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
window repair Croydon with double-glazing is that it can be difficult to open or close. This can be a result of an accumulation of dust or dirt that has gotten stuck in the track or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. Depending on the severity, this could be a simple issue to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows could cause dampness inside your home, and mold and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that aren't sealed properly.
The good thing is that you are able to repair these issues and, in most cases, it will be cheaper than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees be sure to check what yours covers before you begin work. Always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter, not sending a text message. This will make it easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.