15 Reasons Why You Shouldn t Be Ignoring Repairing Double Glazing
How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double glazing windows come with a guarantee that lasts for 20 years. If you spot an issue you're looking to fix, contact the company that provided the windows to find out what their policy for repairs is.
Repairing your double glazing can be an easy task in some cases. Here are the most frequent problems and how to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass together. It is difficult to take out a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could also lead to the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to repair the crack as quickly and properly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be accomplished at home with just a few materials and tools. To begin, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, since broken glass can contain dangerous fragments. After the broken glass has been removed, wash the frame of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the window frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points using a putty blade. Once all glazing points are removed then clean the backside as well as the an l-shaped space inside the window repair frame. Then, clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount glazier's putty on the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Some types of windows use vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to hold the glass in place, instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop is removed, place a strip of strong-hold tape on the outside of the glass pane to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame are likely be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a very serious problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is leaking out and windows are losing their efficiency. This can result in expensive heating bills since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
There are a few warning signs you should be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze coming through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal may have been damaged and require sealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are failing.
To stop drafts, replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging job that requires specialized tools in order to avoid damaging the window glass. It is best to consult an expert glass company to complete this work, as they can use deglazing equipment that can remove the old seals and harm the glass.
In some cases, you might be able to repair your leaking double-glazed windows with silicone putty to cover the gaps. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. However, it is worth trying if you have no other options.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be due the aging process, environmental conditions or the way that the windows are put in place. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they were first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the first sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. A draught will likely be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or the wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to seep through. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches appearing on walls, but this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for homeowners who wish to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting however they require regular maintenance.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. Condensation is often the first sign that the window seal is failing. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could result in mould growth and even wood decay.
Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This is the case for your windows. It's not a major double Glazing repairs problem, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as fast as you can to stop it from forming.
But it's not always a sign of a failing seal, and there are many other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows wear out over time. This could cause them to break, which will then reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows replaced immediately.
A tradesperson can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking the affected pane off, then putting it back in place. They will then push hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight and working as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is crucial to find a reliable tradesman who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are seeking to find a list.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sounds 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 water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is essential to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can break due to general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by pets or children. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix like using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage may require the insertion of new window frames which isn't something you want to take on yourself unless you are an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be because of the accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. It can be resolved with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double-glazed windows can cause dampness in your home, as well as mould and condensation. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it can easily be absorbed by surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good news is that you can solve these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a guarantee usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email, letter or fax rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that may arise.
