9 Signs You're The Repairing Double Glazing Expert
How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing windows typically come with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you spot a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who provided the windows to inquire about what their policy for repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be an easy task in some instances. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on a seal that is air tight to keep the outer and inner glass together. If one of the glass panes break, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage may cause an energy loss, so it is important to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using the right tools and materials. To begin, take out all loose pieces of broken glass. Wear gloves that are protected as broken glass may contain hazardous shatterings. After the broken glass has been removed, clean the area of the frame with an abrasive pad that is dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any residue left behind by the glue used to secure the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Remove any remaining glazing points by 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. Then, you can prepare to install a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the help 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 glass to hold it in place against the frame, and close the gap between the frames.
Certain types of windows employ aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to keep the glass in place, instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are this type, use a 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 tape strip to the exterior of your new pane of window to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue since it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has escaped out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs you should be aware of to stop a drafty window from developing. If you feel a breeze blowing through your windows when they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires replacing. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indicator that the seals are not working properly.
The simplest way to eliminate a draught is to simply replace the seals around the frames. This is a challenging task that requires special tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you seek out a professional glazing service to complete the work and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
You might be able to repair your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the best solution because it has poor heat resistance and can leak again. But, it's worth a try if you have no other option available.
Double-glazed windows with rubber seals can fail over time. This could be caused by environmental conditions, age or the manner in which your windows are set up. When this happens it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as possible to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
A window that is draughty is usually the most obvious sign that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. There will be a draught around the frame's edges, especially where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or the wall. The seal has broken and air is able to seep in. In some instances this could result in damp patches on the surrounding walls, but this isn't as common.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to cut energy costs and improve their home's insulation. They are durable and long-lasting however they require regular maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. It is often the first sign that a window seal has failed. If condensation isn't dealt with promptly, it could lead to mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation occurs most often in the mornings when temperatures rise and humidity levels increase which causes water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's not a major issue, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window may wear out. This could cause them to break, which in turn will depressurise the air gap between your glass panes. This is why it's crucial to get your double glazed windows repaired as soon as possible in the event that you observe any signs of condensation or misting.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back in the correct position. They will then push hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. Then, they'll apply a new seal in order to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows is a much cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. It is essential to find a trustworthy tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade can help you find local, vetted, and checked traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs . All you need to do is enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are seeking to find the list.
Frame Damage
If you hear crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. The seals keep water and cold out of the insulating gap between glass panes, so it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Fractures that crack could be caused by wear and tear or due to collision damage, such as when pets or children play. Most of the time, this can be fixed with a simple fix, like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding 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 can be a result of a build-up of dirt or dust that has become 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, dependent on the extent of the issue.
Moisture that is able to enter your home through damaged double-glazed windows could cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than the cooler air outside, and so it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that are not properly sealed.
The good part is that you can fix these problems and, in most cases, it will be less expensive than replacing your entire window. Faults with double glazing are usually covered by a warranty usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees - always check what yours covers before you start working. Always contact your company via email, letter or fax instead of text message. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that might arise.