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 find a problem, it's worth contacting the company who provided the windows to learn what their policy on repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be simple in some instances. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's inner and outer 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 result in a decrease in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Repairing cracked glass in double-glazed windows is an easy task that can be completed at home using a few tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous shatterings. After removing the broken glass, use a dampened rag with acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the area around the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and an l-shaped space inside the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty may be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and seal the gap between the frames.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without damaging it. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the glass's surface to protect the new glass to stop any further damage.
Leaking Seals
Seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious issue since it means that all of the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating since your windows are not as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs that you can look out for to help stop a drafty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows when they are closed, the seal might have been damaged and require resealing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another sign that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging task that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended to contact a professional glazing company to have this work done in order to be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This is not the best option because it lacks resistance to heat and may leak again. It's worth a try, in the event that there are no alternatives available.
It is not unusual to see the rubber seals around windows with double glazing to fail over time. double glazing Golders Green could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that windows are constructed. If this happens it is essential to have the seals replaced as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
Double glazing that is not performing well is usually evident by a drafty double-glazed window. There will be drafts around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame meets the brickwork or the wall. The seal has failed and air can be able to seep into. In some cases this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, though this isn't as 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. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they require regular maintenance from time to the point.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is usually the first sign that the window's seal has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it can lead to mold growth, and possibly wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising that causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to stop it from spreading.
Condensation does not always mean an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows could leak. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. They may eventually break, which in turn will cause the air gap to be compressed between the glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to get your double-glazed windows repaired immediately.
To repair a double-glazed window that has condensation tradesman will take off the damaged pane prior to putting it back in place and then running hot air through the gap to remove any moisture that might be lingering. 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 option than buying and installing new windows. It is essential to find a reliable tradesman who can do the work. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of your frame seals is broken if you hear crackling noises or other strange sounds coming from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the space between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Fragments that crack can be caused by wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with an easy repair such as using silicone to fill in the gap or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something you should not do unless you're skilled in the trades.
A common double-glazing problem is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be because of the accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track, or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as warping of the sash or frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may be easy to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through windows that are damaged can cause dampness, mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will be able to settle on surfaces like windows with single or double glazing that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can repair these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 to 20 years and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to verify your warranty before you begin work. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that may arise.