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How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Double-glazed windows are often sold with warranties that cover them for up to 20 years. If you notice a problem you're looking to fix, contact the company who sold you the windows to inquire about what their policy regarding repairs is.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be simple in some instances. Here are a few of the most frequent problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows rely on an air-tight seal to keep the inner and outer glass in place. If double glazing repairs of the glass panes breaks it could be extremely difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the frame of the window. This kind of damage can also lead to a loss in energy efficiency. It is therefore crucial to repair it quickly and efficiently.
Fortunately, repairing cracked glass in double glazing windows is a straightforward task that can be completed at home with a few tools and materials. To begin, remove any broken pieces that are loose from the glass. Make sure you wear protective gloves while doing this, since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. Once the broken glass is removed, wash the frame of the frame using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or acetone to remove any traces left by the adhesive that was used to attach the broken glass to the frame of the window.
Then, you can remove any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all the 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 using a wirebrush and the new frame prior to putting in the new pane. Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a small amount glazier’s putty to the edge of the glass to secure it against the frame.
Certain windows employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of glaziers' points. If your double glazed windows are made of this type you'll need to make use of a utility knife cut through the tape on both sides to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. Once the stop is removed, apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the outside of the new pane of glass to help prevent any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The seals around the frame could be damaged if double-glazed windows leak. This is a serious problem since it means that all of the thermally insulating gas has leaked out and your window is becoming less efficient. This could mean you spend more on heating because your windows are not as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs to look out for to help prevent a draughty window from forming. If you notice a slight breeze blowing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal could be damaged and requires sealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
To eliminate drafts, replace the seals on the frames. However it is a challenging task that requires special tools to ensure that you don't damage the glass. You should contact a professional glass company to complete this task, since they can use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and harm the glass.
In certain cases it is possible to fix your leaky double-glazed windows using silicone putty to cover the gaps. This is not an ideal solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and could leak again in the future. It's worth a try, when there aren't any other options available.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can fail as time passes. This could be due to the aging process, environmental conditions or the manner in which the windows are constructed. When this happens it is crucial to have the seals replaced immediately to ensure that your double glazed windows are as effective as they were when they were first put in.
Double glazing that is not working properly is usually spotted by a drafty double glazed window. You will feel an air draught at the frame's edges, especially where the frame meets the brickwork or surrounding wall. This is because the seal has failed, allowing air be able to seep through. In some instances this may result in damp patches appearing on walls, but this is not the norm.
Condensation
Double glazing windows are a fantastic option for homes that are seeking to reduce their energy bills and improve the insulation of their home. However, despite being durable and long-lasting, they do require periodic maintenance from time the point.
Condensation is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. It is often the first indication that the window seal has failed. If the appearance of condensation is not dealt with quickly, it may lead to mold growth, and possibly wood mold and even wood.
Condensation typically occurs in the morning when temperatures rise and humidity levels rising, which causes condensation of water vapour on cold surfaces. This includes your windows and isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to wipe away any visible condensation as quickly as you can in order to prevent it from forming.
Condensation does not always mean a sign of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why double-glazed windows might leak. Seals made of rubber on double-glazed windows can wear down over time. They may eventually break, which in turn will reduce the air gap between the glass panes. This is why it's important to have your double-glazed windows fixed as soon as possible when you notice signs of misting or condensation.
A tradesperson can fix a double-glazed window that has condensation by taking off the affected pane and then putting it back in place. They will then blow hot air through the gap to remove any moisture. They will then apply a new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning as it should be.
Repairing your double-glazed windows can be a cheaper option than buying and installing brand new windows. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson who can do the work. Checkatrade can help by providing you with local, verified and checked traders that are experienced in performing repairs to double glazing. All you need to do is enter your postcode as well as the kind of tradesman you need to receive a list of results.
Frame Damage
It's possible that one of the seals on your frame is damaged if you hear crackling noises or other odd sounds emanating from your double-glazed windows. These seals keep cold and water out of the insulating gap between the glass panes, and it's vital to get them replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture infiltrating your home.
Cracking in the frames can result from wear and tear or as a result of collision damage, such as when children or pets play. This is often repaired with a simple fix, such as using silicone or sanding the area. However, more extensive damage may require the introduction of new window frames which is not something you should take on yourself unless you are a competent tradesman.
The most frequent issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This can be a result of an accumulation of dirt or dust that has gotten stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as the sash bending or warping frame. This can be easily fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the severity.
The infiltration of moisture through damaged double glazed windows could lead to dampness in your home, and mold and condensation. The warm air inside your home is more likely hold moisture than the cooler air outside, which is why it will get trapped on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that are not properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows entirely. Double-glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee usually for a period of 10 or 20 years, although some companies offer lifetime guarantees and you should always verify the terms of your guarantee before you start working. Always contact your company by email or letter rather than text message. This will allow you to follow up with any issues that may arise.
