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 could be repaired.

You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty based on the issue and when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary fix, and may be able to stop the crack from becoming worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed then place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.

In order to install a replacement pane you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a way that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.

Spread a thick layer of it with a putty blade once your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window could damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Water that falls on the area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping might need to be replaced.

Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks over the window. The installers who built the house may not have realized that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.

Another source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue however, it could affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and let you know the source of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent problem in older double glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily solved. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window, and typically occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional inspection of 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 affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a high-quality seal will be reapplied.

The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the most effective solution 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 is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and it's usually necessary 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 huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest possible quality. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work that is completed that you would not get from DIY work.

Shattering

Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.

Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk it is essential to have them fixed as soon as you can. Faults such as misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.

It is often far more cost effective to repair your double glazing repair (click here to visit Copyoa for free)-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, the space between them and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, therefore saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more affordable for the majority of households.

Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged window. This is usually the case when it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If your double-glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.