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 failing, you might be wondering whether they are able to be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and the date you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.
If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair service can fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough that you can keep it in place and use a razor blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
After the new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can cause damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is feasible.
A good quality double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The builders who built the house might not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater can enter and accumulate, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. It is possible that gas argon or Krypton that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this instance, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a quote for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily fixed. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will rapidly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.
It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound it is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective approach to tackling this issue, since they will be able to recommend the correct course of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is put back on.
Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically located between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack and in this situation, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do repairs yourself if you 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. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean that you get some kind of assurance for the work that is completed that you would not get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise occasionally. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
If you find any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Issues like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.
It's often cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The lowest price may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose offers the guarantee of their work.
When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained 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 leaking into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then put on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is much more cost-effective for most households.
It is possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the kind of frame and condition of your window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't damaged. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.