Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

Depending on what the issue is and the date you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary fix, and will only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a reputable window repair service is required to fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large, you can make use of a razor window repairs to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. Once the pane is free you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Measure 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 correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a position that allows for expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

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

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the upvc window repairs, and can lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area must be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Or, 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 builders who constructed the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving an opening where rainwater could be able to enter and collect around the window, creating 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 the water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in double-glazed units. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They can also advise whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily fixed. This is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is usually caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould in the long term Therefore, it is recommended to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best option. Professional companies will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal is applied.

Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and blocks it from reaching the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a great amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazed window repairs glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest quality. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty for the work completed that you wouldn't receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise from time to time. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and make them appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain 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 has been damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is far cheaper for most households.

Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to fix the damaged part. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.