Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing, you may be wondering if they can be fixed.

You may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and barrier against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix and could only stop the crack from becoming more severe. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any broken glass in double-glazed windows.

It is risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough, you can keep it in place and use a razor to cut it away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and installers a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a new glass pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some glaziers' points at hardware stores to put around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a manner that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.

Once your new pane is set then spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue 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. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's 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 in the window could damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which holds the bricks above the window. 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, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers could have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed properly. 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's possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be a good idea. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is typically an easy solution. It is caused by a lack of air flow around the window, and typically occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.

Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold in time, so it's recommended to get the window repairs repaired as soon as you can.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this problem, as they can suggest the best procedure to take. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is applied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal fails and they begin to become cloudy. Simple fixes can aid, but the best solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. However, this spacer bar may break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, installers it is generally better to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done, which you would not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.

If you find any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also leave them looking unsightly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically cheaper than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold it will be placed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, the space 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 that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged window dependent on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not broken. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.