Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and may just prevent the crack from getting more severe. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that might fall.
In order to install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to place them along the edge of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
After the new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This occurs when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window could require replacement.
The lintel above the window could also be an area of leaks. The builders who built the house may not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or have clad it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could enter and get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another possible source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be the best option. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also help you decide whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally a simple solution. This is caused by a lack of air flow around the window. It usually happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then repair is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional can examine your window and recommend the best solution. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If window repairs occurs it is possible that simple fixes can aid, but in most cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes break or crack and in this situation, it is typically required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest quality. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. But it's not impervious to damage and from time to time issues can arise. In some cases, these faults may even be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk It is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and make them look unsightly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. So, if you have noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, you should consider looking for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and getting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose offers a guarantee with their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes that have an area between them, and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, thereby conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far more affordable for the majority of households.
Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to simply repair the damaged part. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not damaged. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.