Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

Depending on what the problem is and when you bought them from, you may be able to get your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Based on the season it can allow warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

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 may just prevent the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large to be able to keep it in place and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a replacement pane you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted you must measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy glaziers points from a hardware store to place them along the edge of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.

After the new pane is set, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This happens when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window and also result in damp or moldy walls that need to be restored as quickly as is feasible.

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into this area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.

The lintel above the window can be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left an opening where rainwater could get in and build up around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.

Another possible source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most serious issue associated with leaky windows however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this instance, replacement double glazing may be appropriate. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll also be able to advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it's generally a simple fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is most likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue 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 examine your window and recommend the best solution. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by defective windowpane seals. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged, causing them to get clogged. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can crack or break and in this instance, it is typically required to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it's more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a great amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.

As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger, then it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults such as misting and water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be more cost-effective than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a gap between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from leaking into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thus conserving energy.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much more cost-effective for most households.

It is possible to repair the damaged window depending on the kind of frame and condition of your window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but it isn't broken. If your double-glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.