How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that covers them for up 20 years. If you spot a problem it's worth checking with the company you purchased them from to see what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are some of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal in order to keep the inner and outer glass in place. If one of the glass panes break it is difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage may also lead to a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and in a timely manner.
Fortunately, fixing damaged 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. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame using an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the window frame.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, you can prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. After the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize vinyl, wood or aluminum stops to support the glass instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. Once the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the exterior of the new window to stop further damage from occurring.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas being released and windows are losing their efficiency. This could result in costly heating bills as windows aren't as efficient as they were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs you should look out for to help prevent a draughty window from developing. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed It could be because the seal has been damaged and requires to be replaced. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass which is another indicator that seals are failing.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated job that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended to get in touch with a professional glazing firm to get this job done and they will be able to use deglazing tools to take off the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain cases you may be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not an ideal solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. However, it is worthwhile if there is no other option available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals around the double-glazed windows to break over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age, or the way your windows are installed. If this happens, it is important 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.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. You will feel a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air can be able to seep into. This can sometimes result in damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time however they require regular maintenance.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. Condensation is usually the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could result in the growth of mould and eventually wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels rise, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's not a major problem, but you should clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to avoid it from setting in.
However, it's not always the indication of a leaky seal and there are other reasons why your double-glazed windows could be leaking. Over time, the rubber seals in a double glazed window may wear out. They may eventually break, which will then depressurise the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows fixed promptly if you notice any signs of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before placing it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that may remain. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new windows. It is also essential to find a reputable tradesman to complete the task. Checkatrade helps you by providing local verified, vetted, and inspected traders who are experienced in the repair of double glazing. You just need to type in your postcode and select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other odd sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, so it's essential that you get these repaired as soon as you can to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by general wear and tear or as a result of impact damage such as when pets or children play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're an experienced 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 gotten stuck in the track, or it could be an indication that there is a structural issue such as the sash becoming warped or a frame. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the severity.
The moisture that gets into your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, so it will settle on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that are not properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be corrected and, in most cases, it's less expensive than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year and some companies even offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact window repairs Mile End via email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow-up on any issues that might arise.