How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
A lot of double glazing windows come with a guarantee that covers them for up 20 years. If you spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you bought them from to see what their policy is regarding repairs.
Repairing your double glazing could be an easy task in some instances. Here are a few of the most common problems that can be fixed.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows require an airtight seal to keep the glass's outer and inner parts together. If one of the glass panes breaks, it can be very difficult to remove the broken piece without damaging the window frame. This type of damage can cause the loss of energy efficiency and therefore it is crucial to repair the crack as quickly and correctly.
Fortunately, fixing broken glass in double-glazing windows is an easy job that can be done at home using just the right tools and materials. To begin remove any loose pieces of broken glass from the frame. Wear protective gloves since broken glass may contain hazardous fragments. After removing the broken glass, make use of a dampened rag soaked in acetone or rubbing alcohol to wash the the frame. This will remove any adhesive residue.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame using a putty knife. Once all glazing points are removed, clean the backside and the l-shaped area of the window frame. Then, clean the old glass with a wirebrush and then clean the new frame before installing the new pane. After the glass and frame are clean, a bit of glazier's glue can be applied to the edges of the new pane to hold it in position against the frame and close the gap between the frames.
window repair Wembley employ aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass in place instead of the glazier's points. If your double-glazed windows are made of this type you'll need to make use of a utility knife slice through the tape on both sides in order to remove the stop from the frame, without destroying the frame. Once the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of strong-hold tape to the surface of the glass pane to prevent further damage.
Leaking Seals
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a serious problem because it means that all the thermally insulating gas is leaking out and the window is not performing as efficiently. This can lead you to spend more on heating because windows aren't as efficient as they once were.
There are some warning signs you can watch out for that will help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you notice a slight breeze passing through your windows, even when they are closed, the seal might have broken and needs resealing. You might also notice condensation on the glass this is a sign that the seals have failed.
To eliminate a draft, simply replace the seals on the frames. This is a difficult task that requires specialized tools to ensure that the window is not damaged glass. It is best to consult a professional glass company to do this job, as they will be able to use deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not cause damage to the glass.
You may be able to fix your double-glazed windows which are leaking with silicone putty. This is not the best solution as it has a poor heat resistance and can leak again. It is worth trying, if there are no other options available.
Rubber seals around double-glazed windows can break in time. This could be caused by age, environmental conditions or the way in which your windows are set up. When this happens it is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can to ensure that your double-glazed windows are as efficient as they were when they first installed.
A window that is drafty is often the first sign that your double glazing is not performing to its best. A draft is likely to be felt at the edges of the frame where it joins with the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to seep in. This can sometimes cause damp patches to appear on the walls.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are a great choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and improve the insulation of their home. But despite being durable and long-lasting, they require periodic maintenance from time time.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first indication that the seal of the window has failed. If the appearance of condensation isn't treated quickly, it could cause mould growth and even wood mold and even wood.
Condensation is most commonly seen in the mornings when air temperatures rise and humidity levels increase, causing water vapour to form. This can be seen on your windows and isn't anything to worry about, but it's recommended to clean any visible condensation as soon as you can to prevent it from forming.
Condensation isn't always an indication of a failing window seal. There are many other reasons why your double-glazed windows could leak. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows that are double-glazed may wear out. The rubber seals can wear down over time, causing them to break. This can depressurize the air space between the glass panes. This is the reason it's vital to get your double glazed windows fixed as soon as possible if you notice any indications of condensation or misting.
To repair a double-glazed window with condensation A professional will take out the affected pane, before putting it back in place and then running hot air over the gap to eliminate any moisture that may still remain. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure the gap remains airtight and functioning as it should be.
It is important to know that repairing your double-glazed windows is a lot less expensive than purchasing and installing new windows. It is essential to find a reputable tradesperson capable of doing the job. Checkatrade helps by supplying you with local, vetted and verified traders that are experienced in carrying out double glazing repairs. All you need to do is type in your postcode along with the type of tradesperson you require to receive a list of results.
Frame Fragment Damage
If you hear crackling sound or other odd noises emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals are there to keep cold and water out of the insulating gap that is between the glass panes. It's important to get them replaced as soon as possible to stop moisture entering your home.
Fractures can crack due to general wear and tear, or impact damage from pets or children. Often this can be remedied by a simple fix like using silicone to fill the gap or sanding down the area. However, more extensive damage could require the installation of new window frames, which isn't something you'd want to do on yourself unless you're an experienced tradesman.
A common issue with double-glazing is that it may be difficult to open or close. This can be a result of the accumulation of dust or dirt that has become stuck in the track, or it could be a sign that there is a structural issue, such as warping of the sash or frame. This can be fixed by using a bit of elbow grease and a gentle nudge, depending on the degree of the damage.
The moisture that gets into your home through windows that are damaged 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 be able to settle on surfaces like double glazing or single-glazed windows that aren't sealed properly.
The good part is that these issues can be corrected and is usually less expensive than replacing your windows altogether. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a guarantee that typically lasts for a period of 10 or 20 years, although certain companies offer lifetime warranties - always check the terms of your guarantee before you start work. Always communicate with your company in writing, via mail or email, rather than a text message - this will make it easier if you need to follow up with them about any issues that arise.