How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows often come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you find a problem it's worth checking with the company you purchased windows from to find out what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be a simple process in certain instances. Here are a few of the most frequently encountered issues that can be resolved.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on a seal that is air tight to keep the inner and outer glass in place. It isn't easy to remove a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage may also result in a loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to repair the crack as quickly and in a timely manner.
It is a good thing that repairing broken glass in double-glazing windows is a simple job that can be accomplished at home with some tools and materials. To do so, first take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing this, as broken glass could contain dangerous fragments. After the broken glass has been removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left behind by the glue used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Next, remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all glazing points have been removed, clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Finally, prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame using the help of a wire brush. After the frame has been cleaned then apply a small amount of glazier's putty on the glass's edge to ensure it is secured against the frame.
Certain types of windows employ vinyl, aluminum or wood stops to keep the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, use a utility blade to cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed and the tape strip is removed, you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of the new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas leaking out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This could result in costly heating bills since windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you notice that your windows aren't draughty when closed it could be because the seal has broken and must be resealed. You might also notice condensation on the glass, which is an indication that the seals are failing.
The easiest way to eliminate a draught is simply to replace the seals around the frames. This is a complicated job that requires specialized tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work in order to be able to utilize 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 solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail over time. This can be caused by age, environmental conditions or the way in which the windows are constructed. It is important to replace the seals as quickly as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as effective as when they first came out.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious indication that your double glazing is underperforming. There will be a draught around the frame's edges, where the frame meets the brickwork or wall. This is because the seal failed, allowing air to be able to seep through. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent alternative for homeowners who wish to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they still require maintenance.
A common issue that windows with double glazing experience is condensation. Condensation is usually the first indication that the window seal is failing. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it can lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels are rising and water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to remove any visible condensation as soon as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failed window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over double glazing repair made of rubber on windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals can wear out over time, leading them to break. This will depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's crucial to have your double-glazed windows repaired as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of misting or condensation.
To repair a double glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane, before putting it back in place and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still remain. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and working as it should be.
It is important to know that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It is also essential to locate a trustworthy tradesperson to do the work. Checkatrade makes this easy by providing you with local, vetted and verified tradesmen who are skilled in performing repairs to double glazing. All you have to do is input your postcode along with the type of tradesmen you require to receive a list of results.
Frame 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 been damaged. The seals keep cold water out of the gap between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as you can to stop moisture from getting into your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear or impact damage from children or pets. It is often possible to fix the issue with an easy repair like using silicone to fill the crack or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames which is not something you should take on your own unless you're a competent tradesman.
Another issue with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could result from a buildup of dirt and dust in the track or a structural issue like warping. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a simple issue to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. This is due to the fact that warm air in your home is more prone to holding moisture than the cooler air outside, which means it will easily get trapped on surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Double glazing problems are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for 10 or 20 year, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you begin work. Always contact your company in writing, either by email or letter, not a text message - this will make it easier if you need to follow-up with them about any issues that arise.