How to Go About Repairing Double Glazing Windows
Many double-glazed windows come with a guarantee that covers them for up 20 years. If you do spot an issue, it's best to check with the company you purchased windows from to find out what their policy on repairs.
In certain cases, fixing your double glazing is an easy job. Here are the most frequent issues and the best way to repair them.
Broken Glass
Double pane windows depend on an air-tight seal in order to keep the outer and inner glass together. It isn't easy to remove a damaged glass pane without damaging the frame. This kind of damage could result in a decrease in energy efficiency. Enfield double glazing repair is therefore crucial to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Repairing broken glass in double-glazed windows is a simple task that can be accomplished at home using a few materials and tools. To do so, first, remove any loose bits of broken glass from the frame. Be sure to wear protective gloves while doing this, since broken glass can contain dangerous shatterings. After the broken glass has been removed, wipe the frame of the frame using a rag that has been dampened with acetone or rubbing alcohol to get rid of any residue left by the adhesive used to fix the broken glass to the frame.
Then, take any remaining glazing points from the frame with a putty knife. After all the glazing points are removed and cleaned, you can clean the back of the window frame and the l-shaped space between where the window pane joins the frame to ensure that they are free of any hardened glazing compound. Finally, prepare for the installation of a new pane of glass by cleaning the old glass and the new frame with the use of a wire brush. After the frame and glass are clean, a small amount of glazier's putty can be applied to the edges of the new pane to keep it in position against the frame and seal the gap between the frames.
Some windows utilize aluminum, wood or vinyl stops to hold the glass instead of glaziers' points. If your double-glazed windows are of this type, you will need to employ a utility knife to slice through the tape on both sides to take the stop from the frame without damaging the frame. Once the stop is removed, you can apply a strip of tape that is strong to the glass's surface to protect the new glass to stop any further damage.
Seals that leak
If your double-glazed windows leak in the frame, the seals around the frame have probably failed. This is a very serious issue because it means that all the thermally-insulating gas leaks out and windows are losing their efficiency. This could mean you pay more for heating since windows aren't as efficient as they used to be.
There are a few warning signs to look for to help you prevent a drafty window from developing. If you notice a breeze passing through your windows even though they are closed, the seal may be damaged and requires sealing. You may also notice condensation on the glass which is another indicator that the 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 best to consult an expert glass company to complete this work, as they can utilize deglazing equipment to take off the old seals and not damage the glass.
In certain situations, you might be able to fix your leaky double-glazed windows with silicone putty to fill the gaps. This isn't a great solution since it doesn't have a good heat resistance and it can leak again in the future. It is worth trying, in the event that there are no other options.
The seals on double-glazed windows made of rubber can break as time passes. This can be due to the environment, age or the way windows are constructed. It is crucial to replace the seals as soon as you can so that your double-glazed windows remain as effective as when they were first installed.
Double glazing that isn't performing well is usually evident by a drafty double-glazed window. A draught is likely to be felt around the edges of the frame, where it joins the brickwork or wall. The seal has failed and air is able to be able to seep into. In some instances this may result in damp patches on the walls, although this is less common.
Condensation
Double-glazing windows are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to lower their energy bills and increase the insulation of their home. They are durable and last a long time however they require regular maintenance.
One of the most frequent issues double-glazed windows face is condensation. The appearance of condensation is often the first sign that the seal of the window has failed. If condensation is not addressed promptly, it could lead to mould growth and even to wood rot.
Condensation usually occurs in the morning, when temperatures rise and humidity levels are rising, which causes water vapour to form on cold surfaces. This is the case for your windows. It's not a major problem, but you should wipe off any visible condensation as fast as possible to prevent it from setting in.
Condensation is not always an indication of a failing window seal. There are other reasons why your double-glazed windows may mist up. Over time the seals made of rubber in windows that are double-glazed are prone to wear. The rubber seals can wear down over time, which causes them to break. This can depressurize the air gap between the glass panes. If you see signs of misting or condensation it is crucial to have your double-glazed windows fixed immediately.
To fix a double-glazed window with condensation tradesman will take off the affected pane, before installing it and running hot air through the gap to eliminate any moisture that may be lingering. They will then apply an entirely new seal to ensure that the gap is airtight and working as it should be.
It is important to remember that repairing your double glazed windows can be a lot cheaper than buying and installing new ones. It's important to find a reputable tradesperson who is able to complete the task. Checkatrade can help you find local certified, vetted and verified traders who are experienced in double glazing repairs. All you have to do is type in your postcode and the type of tradesperson you require to get a list of results.
Frame Damage
If you notice crackling sounds or other odd noises emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that one of the seals on your frame has failed. These seals keep cold and water out of the gaps between the glass panes. It is important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent moisture from getting into your home.
Cracking in the frames can be caused by wear and tear or as a result of collision damage, such as when pets or children play. It is usually fixed with a simple repair by using silicone or sanding the area. If the damage is more extensive it may be necessary to replace the window frames. This is something that you should not attempt unless you're an experienced tradesman.
Another common problem with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. This could be the result of a build-up of dirt or dust that has become stuck in the track or it could indicate that there is a structural issue such as the sash bending or warping frame. Depending on the severity of the issue, this could be a simple issue to fix with a little of elbow grease and a gentle push.
Moisture that enters your home through damaged double-glazed windows can cause condensation, mould, and dampness. This is because warm air in your home is more susceptible to holding moisture than the cooler outside air, so it can easily get trapped on surfaces such as double glazing or single-glazed windows that haven't been properly sealed.
Fortunately, the good aspect is that these issues can be repaired and is usually cheaper than replacing your windows completely. Double glazing problems are typically covered by a warranty, typically for a period of 10 or 20 years, though some companies offer lifetime warranties. Always check your guarantee prior to beginning work. Always contact your company by email or letter rather than text message. This will allow you to follow-up on any issues that might arise.