Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

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

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause cold or hot air to escape or enter your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and will only stop the crack from growing. A professional window repair company can fix any damaged glass on your double glazing repairs-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large you can use a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on many layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that might fall.

To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after the new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks in the window can damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes get blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.

The lintel on top of the window can be the source of leaks. The builders who built the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could get in and then get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a cause of leaks. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can complete an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to fix or replace the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually a simple fix. This is due to a lack of air circulation 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 indication of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.

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

A professional can examine your window and suggest the best solution. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is applied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by defective windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is typically located between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant that absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. 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 tradesperson can be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work done which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, Repairing it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.

If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk it is essential to fix them as soon as you can. Issues such as misting or leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows, and can leave them looking unsightly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best choice and ensure that your chosen firm offers a guarantee on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, the space between them and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, repairing therefore cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged an alternative pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged pane based on the type of frame and the condition of the window. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but is not damaged. If the double-glazed window is completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.