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 may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.

Depending on what the issue is and window repairs how long ago you bought them from the store, you might be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack isn't too deep, you might 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. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass then place it flat on several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.

Spread a thick layer using a putty knife after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

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

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Water that falls on the area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Also, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel that is a support for the brick that is over the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another possible leak source is the gap between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case replacing double glazing could be appropriate. A professional can perform a full evaluation and identify the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually an easy solution. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.

Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional can examine your window and recommend the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is put back on.

Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double glazing repairs near me-paned windows when the seal is damaged, causing them to fog up. Simple fixes may 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. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a great deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work carried out which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues can arise. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.

Therefore, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

It's often cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose has an assurance on their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with an opening in between and a rubber gasket that stops water from entering the 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, it is possible to 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 many households.

Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case when it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not 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.