Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of in danger, you might wonder if they can still be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and when you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. This could cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary solution, though, and it could only stop the crack from growing. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service is required to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and challenging to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is large and difficult to eliminate Try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large you can make use of a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free you must place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit properly. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new glass. Be sure to position the points in a way that will allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Or, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The people who built the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly or they may have simply covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders could have placed an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be the cause of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to provide you a price for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is generally a simple fix. This is due to the lack of air flow around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as quickly as possible.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best way of dealing with this issue, since they can determine the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is put back on.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and they begin to become cloudy. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes can aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes crack or break, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, however it is normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a great deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty for the work completed that you wouldn't get if you were to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible, and issues can occur periodically. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed quickly.
If you notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and make them look unsightly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best choice and ensure that your chosen firm offers a guarantee on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, a space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thus saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for many households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged window. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.