Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to display signs of in danger, you might wonder if they can still be fixed.

You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken air can flow 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 could cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.

If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary fix however, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large it is possible to make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass window repair. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.

In order to install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.

Once your new pane has been placed and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your preferred glazing compound using a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and Repair My Windows And Doors the new pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a common problem. This happens when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as is possible.

A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash closes. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is above the window. The builders who built the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows it can affect energy efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it is advisable to Repair My Windows And Doors the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, but this can usually be easily solved. This is due to the lack of air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and 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 persists it's worth investigating further.

You can also hear water drip. This is usually caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould over time It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed as soon as you can.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, since they can recommend the correct procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal is reapplied.

Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and Repair My Windows And Doors with the best quality possible. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work done that you can't get from DIY work.

Shattering

Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues may arise. In certain instances, these faults may even be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the performance of windows and make them look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you've noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, it's worth looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and getting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged an alternative 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 more cost-effective for a lot of households.

Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to repair the damaged part. If the glass has developed only a few tiny chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the situation. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.