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 failing, you may be wondering if they can be repaired.
You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air move more easily, which reduces the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow warm or cold air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary solution however, and could only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is large and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is small enough to be able to keep it in place and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that might fall.
To install a new glass pane, you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
After the new pane has been placed, spread a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained through the weepholes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can be an area of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or have covered it with concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater could get in and then get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers could have upvc repair angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
Another possible source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue with windows that leak, it will have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this instance, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They will also help you decide whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily corrected. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window. It usually happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould over time It is therefore recommended to fix the window as soon as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective approach to tackling this issue, as they can determine the best procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is usually located between the 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 could occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty on the work done, which you would not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. But it's not impervious to damage and, from time to time, issues may arise. These flaws could be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected promptly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.
It's usually cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, the space between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a lot of households.
It is possible to repair the damaged window depending on the frame type and condition of the window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not shattered. If your double glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.