Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.
You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is damaged or cracked it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will rise.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only temporary fix and may be able to prevent the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a reputable window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane is a good fit. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at an hardware store to place along the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty level against the glass.
After the new pane is set, spread a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window could damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which compresses firmly when the sash is closed. The water that enters the area should be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window could require replacement.
The lintel above the window can also be a source of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue, it will impact on efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can complete an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to replace or repair the window. They will be able to also give you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily corrected. It is caused by an absence of air flow around the window. It usually happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth investigating further.
You can also hear water drip. This is usually due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will prevent 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 soon as you can.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best way of dealing with this problem, as they can determine the best method of action. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically located between the glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that might be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty for the work completed that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise periodically. These faults can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk, then it's important to fix them in the earliest time possible. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and also make them look unattractive.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies that specialise in the repair of double-glazed windows and requesting quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a gap between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, thus saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a lot of households.
Depending on the type of window here you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case when it has only developed a few small cracks, but is not damaged. 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.