Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

You may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and may only stop the crack from getting worse. A reputable window repair service can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to remove Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large, you can use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while 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 new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and window repair prepare the frame. To ensure that your new pane fits properly, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new glass. Make sure to place the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Once your new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.

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

Another source of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is above the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a source of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. Although this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak however, it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be the best option. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They will also help you decide whether it is better to repair or replace the window. 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 usually a simple solution. This is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window and often happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth investigating further.

Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould over time, so it's best to have the window repaired promptly.

A professional will inspect 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 the two, this will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can break or crack, and in this case it is typically required to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is 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 correctly and with the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an amazing innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. But it's not impervious to damage and from time to time issues may arise. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.

As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk It is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers a guarantee with 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 with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.

It is possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the type of frame and the condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but not been broken, that's usually the case. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.