How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that lasts up to 20 years. If you find problems it's a good idea to contact the company that supplied the windows to find out what their policy regarding repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is an easy task. Here are the most frequently encountered issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to hold the glass's outer and inner parts together. It isn't easy to remove the glass pane that has broken without causing damage to the frame. This kind of damage may also result in an energy loss and therefore it is crucial to fix the crack fast and properly.
Fortunately, fixing damaged glass in double glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home with the right tools and materials. To begin, remove all broken pieces that have fallen off of the glass. Wear protective gloves as broken glass could contain dangerous shards. After getting rid of the broken glass use a dampened rag and acetone or rub alcohol to clean the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using the putty blade. After all glazing points have been removed then clean the backside of the window frame as well as the l-shaped space where the window pane meets the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glass compound. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and the new frame before installing the new pane. After the frame and glass are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in place against the frame and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If double-glazed windows have this kind, you can use a utility blade to cut through the tape from both sides in order to remove the stop without causing damage to it. After the stop has been removed then you can apply a strong-hold tape strip to the outside of your new pane of window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame may have failed. This is a serious issue because it means that all of the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and your window is losing efficiency. This can lead to expensive heating bills because windows won't be as effective as they once were.
There are some warning signs to look out for that will assist you in stopping drafty window from becoming a problem. If you notice that your windows are draughty even when closed it could be because the seal has broken and needs to be replaced. You may also notice condensation appearing on the glass, which is another indication that the seals are not working properly.
To stop a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. However it is a challenging job that requires special tools to avoid damaging the glass. You should contact an expert glass firm to perform this work, as they can utilize deglazing equipment to remove the seals that were previously used and not damage the glass.
It is possible to fix your double-glazed windows that leak with silicone putty. This isn't a great solution as it does not provide a high resistance to heat and could leak again in the future. It is worth trying, if there are no other options available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail over time. This could be caused by the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which your windows are set up. If this occurs, 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 were first installed.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing is underperforming. You will feel drafts around the frame's edges, especially where the frame meets the brickwork or wall. The seal has broken and air is able to seep in. This can lead to damp patches appearing on the walls.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for those who are looking to cut energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and long-lasting however they require regular maintenance.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. The appearance of condensation is usually the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning when air temperatures are warming and humidity levels rise that causes condensation to form on cold surfaces. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to be concerned about, however it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from setting in.
But condensation isn't always the indication of a leaky seal. There are other reasons your double glazed windows may be leaking. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows may get worn out over time. This can cause them to break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between your glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows repaired as soon as possible if you notice any signs of condensation or misting.
To fix a double-glazed window that has condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before installing it and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that might be present. Then, they'll apply the new seal to keep the gap airtight.
It is important to note that fixing your double-glazed windows is a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. double glazing repair Eltham to find a reputable tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade helps you by providing local verified, vetted, and inspected tradesmen who are skilled in double glazing repairs. You just need to type in your postcode, and then select the type of tradesman you are looking for to get the list.
Frame Fragment Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged If you hear crackling sounds or other unusual sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is crucial to replace them as soon as possible to stop moisture from entering your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by children or pets. This is often fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. However, more severe damage could require the installation of new window frames which is not something you want to take on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be due to a buildup of dust and dirt within the track or a structural problem such as warping. This can be fixed with a little elbow grease and a gentle nudge, dependent on the degree of the damage.
Moisture that gets in through damaged double glazed windows can cause dampness in your home and mould and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely retain moisture than cooler air outside, so it will be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that are not properly sealed.
The good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and, in most cases, it's cheaper to do so than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing issues are usually covered by a guarantee, usually for a period of 10 or 20 years however some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee before you start work. Always contact your company by email or letter, instead of text messages. This will make it easier to follow up on any issues that might arise.