Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they could be repaired.
You may be able to claim your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked air can enter more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause cold or hot air to escape or enter your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to apply a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only temporary fix, and will be able to stop the crack from becoming more severe. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough, you can hold it in place and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed then place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit properly. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After your new pane has been placed, spread an even layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue like Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame with your chosen compound. Make sure window repairs near me smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window. They can also cause damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash closes. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel on top of the window could also be an area of leaks. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, but it is usually easily fixed. This is due to the lack of air flow around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is usually due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould in time, so it's best to have the window repaired promptly.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most efficient way of dealing with this problem, as they will be able to determine the best method of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is put back on.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break and in this situation, it is typically required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, however it is normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work carried out that you would not get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. These issues can be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected quickly.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the performance of windows, and can cause them to look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, consider looking for local companies that specialize in the repair of double glazed windows and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, a space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as 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 you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the type of frame and the condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't shattered. If your double-glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.
