Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to show signs that they are in danger, you might wonder if they can still be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will rise.

If the crack is not too deep, you might be able to apply a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary fix, and will be able to stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, Window repairs a reputable window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to remove Try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a replacement pane you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned along the edge of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Once your new pane has been placed, spread an even layer of your glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common problem. This happens when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window repairs (click to find out more) can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into this area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.

The lintel that is above the window could also be a source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater could enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another possible leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to an old seal. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can perform a full evaluation and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it's usually an easy fix. It is caused by an absence of air flow around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will quickly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it is worth looking further.

You can also hear water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mould in time, so it's best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Professional firms will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a high-quality seal is applied.

Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution 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 absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can repair some of the issues yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean that you get some form of guarantee for the work done that you can't get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage, and issues can occur from time to time. These issues can be dangerous in some instances if they are not corrected quickly.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies that specialise in the repair of double-glazed windows and requesting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been damaged, window repairs a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for many households.

Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but hasn't broken, that's usually the case. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.