Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

You may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem 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. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary solution however, and will only stop the crack from getting worse. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass on double-glazed windows.

The process of replacing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large you can use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local window repair hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to place them along the edge of your new glass. Position the points so that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

Once your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the compound you choose. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.

A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into the area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks 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 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 installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.

Another leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem however, it could affect energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can perform a full evaluation and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed doors and windows, but it is usually easily corrected. This is due to the lack of air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists, it's worth looking into further.

There is also the sound of the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed as soon as possible.

A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between them, this will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is reapplied.

Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may occur, service thus keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it's normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a guarantee on the work done that you wouldn't receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is a fantastic invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some cases when they aren't addressed promptly.

As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and cause them to look unsightly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in the repairs of double glazed windows and requesting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has an assurance on their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have a space in between, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, thus saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.

Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. This is typically the case if it's just developed a few minor cracks, but it isn't damaged. If your double-glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.