How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a warranty that lasts for 20 years. If you find problems it's a good idea to contact the company that supplied the windows to learn what their policy regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing 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 require a seal that is airtight to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. It can be difficult to remove a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could cause a decline in energy efficiency. Therefore, it is crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Repairing cracked glass in double-glazed windows is a simple job that can be done at home with a handful of tools and materials. To begin take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame with a rag that has been dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside as well as the an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned and dry, apply a small amount of glazier’s putty to the glass's edge to secure it against the frame.
Certain kinds of windows utilize vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, you will need to use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame, without destroying it. After the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the glass pane to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame could be faulty if your double-glazed windows leak. This is a major problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows aren't as effective as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to look out for to help prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when closed it could be due to the seal having been damaged and requires to be resealed. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals have failed.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is to replace the seals around the frames. But this is a complicated task that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the glass. gillingham Double Glazing Window And Door Parts should contact an experienced glass firm to perform this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and cause damage to the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. It is worth trying, in the event that there are no other options available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be due to the environment, age or the way in which windows are constructed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows remain as effective as when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double glazed window. You'll feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame joins the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. In some instances, this can lead to damp patches on the surrounding walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great 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 do require some maintenance.
Condensation is a common problem with double-glazed windows. It is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's not a major issue, but it is important to clean any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber on a double glazed window are prone to wear. This could cause them to break, which will then depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows repaired immediately when you notice signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesman can repair a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in place. They will then push hot air through the gap in order to eliminate any moisture. Then, they'll apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a cheaper option than buying and installing new windows. But it's also important to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. You only need to enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other strange noises coming from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has broken down. The seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes, so it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of collision damage, such as when pets or children play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames, which isn't something you'd want to do on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This could be because of a build-up 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. Depending on the severity, this may be easy to fix with a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows can lead to dampness in your home and mould and condensation. This is because the warm air in your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it can easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that you can fix these problems, and it will often be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a warranty, usually for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Always communicate with your company in writing, by mail or email, rather than text messages - this will make it easier if you have to follow up with them regarding any issues that arise.