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 may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and when you bought them from You may be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is damaged or cracked, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause warm or cold air to enter or escape your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is difficult and risky. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large you can employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This happens when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also cause damp or moldy walls that require to be fixed as soon as possible.

A good double glazed window has a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is shut. The water that enters this area should be drained out through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel that is a support for the brick that is over the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They can also tell you whether it is better to fix or replace the window replacement. They can also provide an estimate for any work needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but this can usually be easily fixed. This is caused by a lack of air flow around the window and often happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.

There is also the sound of water drip. This is usually because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it's best to get the window repaired as soon as you can.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, since they will be able to determine the best course of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is applied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and they begin to become cloudy. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes can aid, but in most instances, the best option is to replace the window.

Most double glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and prevents it from reaching the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it is normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.

As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can reduce the effectiveness of the windows and also make them look unattractive.

It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, the space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.

It is possible to repair the damaged window dependent on the type of frame and the condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's just developed a few minor cracks, but it isn't shattered. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.