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 can be repaired.

You may be able 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, air can pass through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in your double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can repair any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it in place and use a razor blade to cut it off from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a replacement glass you'll need to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and pane using the appropriate compound. Smooth the compound on your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent problem that occurs when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls.

A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash closes. Any water that hits this area must be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick over the window. The installers who built the house may not have realized that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window causing 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 properly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another potential leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. It's possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to an old seal. Although this is not the most serious issue with windows that leak, it will affect energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They'll also be able to advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily fixed. This is caused by an absence of air flow around the window and often is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drips. This could be due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may also lead to mould in time, so it's best to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the best approach to tackling this issue, as they can determine the best method of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.

Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes will 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. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that might occur, therefore stopping it from getting to 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 do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, Window Repair it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you would not get from DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and problems can arise from time to time. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk it is essential to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows, and can 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 is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose offers the guarantee of their work.

When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much cheaper for most households.

Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.