How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that protect them for up to 20 years. If you find problems, you should check with the company that you bought them from to see what their policy on repairs.
Repairing window repairs Billericay -glazed windows can be simple in some cases. Here are the most common issues and the best way to fix them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require a seal that is airtight to hold the inner and outer glass together. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This type of damage can cause the loss of energy efficiency which is why it is essential to repair the crack as quickly and properly.
Repairing damaged glass in double-glazed windows is an easy job that can be done at home using a few materials and tools. To start take off any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass can contain dangerous shards. Once the glass that has broken is removed, clean the area of the frame using a rag dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue left behind by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Remove any remaining glazing points by using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed clean the backside and l-shaped space of the window frame. Clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame prior to installing the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a bit of glazier's putty can be applied to the edge of the new glass to hold it in place against the frame, and make sure that the gap is sealed between the frames.
Some types of windows use aluminum, vinyl or wood stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's point. If your double glazed windows are of this type then you'll need make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. After the stop has been removed, you can apply a strong-hold strip to the exterior of the new window to stop further damage from occurring.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking in the frame, the seals around the frame have likely failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas is being released and your windows are losing efficiency. This could mean you spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they were previously.
Luckily, there are some warning signs to be aware of to prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could have broken and needs replacing. You might also notice condensation forming on the glass, which is another indication that seals are failing.
To stop drafts, just replace the seals on the frames. This is a complicated task that requires special tools to avoid damaging the window glass. It is recommended that you contact a professional glazing company to complete the work, as they will be able to utilize deglazing equipment to remove the old seals without damaging the glass.
It is possible to fix your double-glazed windows that are leaking with silicone putty. This isn't the most ideal solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. However, it is worth trying if you have no other option available.
It is not uncommon for the rubber seals that surround windows with double glazing to break over time. This can be due to age, environmental conditions or the way in which windows are constructed. It is essential to replace the seals as quickly as you can in order to ensure your double-glazed windows remain the same as they were when they first came out.
A window that is draughty is usually the first sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draught will likely be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or the surrounding wall. The seal has broken and air can seep in. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a fantastic alternative for homeowners who wish to lower their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time but they still require maintenance.
One common problem that double glazed windows experience is condensation. It is often the first sign that a window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not treated quickly, it could result in the growth of mould and eventually wood decay.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This includes your windows. It's not a major issue, but you should remove any visible condensation as quickly as possible to prevent it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in a double glazed window are prone to wear. The rubber seals may be worn out over time, causing them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to get your double glazed windows repaired promptly when you notice indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double glazed window that has condensation, a tradesman will remove the affected pane before putting it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to remove any moisture that might remain. Then they will apply an additional seal to keep the gap airtight.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper alternative than purchasing and installing brand new ones. However, it is essential to find a reputable tradesman to carry out the work. Checkatrade helps by supplying local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is enter your postcode and select the type of tradesman that you are looking for to get an overview.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other unusual noises from your double glazed windows, it's likely that one of the frame seals has failed. These 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 entering your home.
Fractures may break because of general wear and tear, or from impact damage caused by children or pets. Often this can be remedied with an easy repair like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something is not something you should attempt unless you're a skilled tradesman.
A common double-glazing problem is that it can be 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 an indication that there is a structural issue, such as the sash bending or warping frame. It can be resolved by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge depending on the severity.
Moisture that enters your home through windows that are damaged can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because the warm air in your home is more susceptible to hold moisture than cooler air outside, which means it can easily get trapped on surfaces such as double or single-glazed windows that aren't properly sealed.
The good part is that you can repair these issues, and it will often be less expensive than replacing the entire window. Faults with double glazing are typically covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for a period of 10 to 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify what yours covers before you start working. Always contact your company by email or letter rather than text message. This will make it easier to follow-up with any issues that may arise.