10 Things Everyone Hates About Repairing Double Glazing
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 an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought them from to see what their policy on repairs.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in some instances. Here are the most frequently encountered problems and how to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass together. It can be difficult to remove a broken glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could also result in an energy loss which is why it is essential to fix the crack quickly and properly.
Repairing cracked glass in double-glazed windows is an easy job that can be done at home with a handful of materials and tools. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves that are protective while doing this, since broken glass could contain dangerous shards. 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 residue left behind by the adhesive used to secure 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 have been removed then clean the backside as well as the l-shaped space of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass using an electric brush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame and glass are clean, a little of glazier's putty may be applied to the edge of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to support the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are made of this type, you will need to use a utility knife to cut through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. Once the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the exterior of the new window to avoid further damage.
Seals that leak
The seals around the frame could be defective if double-glazed windows leak. This is a very serious problem as it means all the thermally-insulating gas is leaks out and your windows are not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
There are a few warning signs that you can be aware of to keep a drafty window from forming. If you notice that your windows are noisy even when they're 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.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a challenging task that requires specialized tools in order to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is recommended that you contact a professional glazing company to complete the work and they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
In certain situations, you might be able to fix your leaky double-glazed windows using a silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't a great option as it doesn't provide a high resistance to heat and could leak again in the future. It's worth a shot if there are no other options available.
It is not unusual for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to break over time. This can be caused by age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. It is essential to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure your double-glazed windows will be as effective as when they were first installed.
Double glazing that is not working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double-glazed window. You'll feel drafts around the edges of the frame, particularly where the frame is positioned to meet brickwork or wall. This is because the seal has been breached, allowing air to get through. In some cases, this can lead to damp patches appearing on walls, though this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and increase the insulation of their home. Although they are durable and long-lasting, they do require regular maintenance from time to time.
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. double glazing Leighton Buzzard is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't addressed quickly, it can cause mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rising that causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not usually a problem, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as quickly as you can to stop it from setting in.
But it's not always a indicator of a failed seal, and there are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows might be misting up. The seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may wear down over time. This could cause them to break, which will then reduce the air gap between your glass panes. If you observe signs of condensation or misting, it is important to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
A tradesperson can fix double-glazed windows that have condensation by removing the affected pane, then putting it back into the correct position. They will then push hot air through the gap to get rid of any moisture. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working 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 reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps you by providing local verified, vetted, and inspected traders with experience in double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to receive an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of the seals in your frame has broken when you hear crackling noises or other unusual sounds emanating from the double-glazed windows. These seals are there to keep water and cold out of the insulating gap that is 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.
Fractures that crack could be caused by general wear and tear or due to injuries sustained by impact, for example when pets or children play. It is usually repaired with a simple fix like using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more severe it may be necessary to replace your window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're skilled in the trades.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it is difficult to open or close. This could be due to a build-up of dust and dirt in the track or a structural issue like warping. Based on the severity, it could be simple to fix using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould and dampness. The warm air inside your home is more likely to retain moisture than cooler air outside, which is why it will settle on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.
The good news is that these problems can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows entirely. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Make sure to check your warranty before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow-up with any issues that may arise.