Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to display signs of in danger, you might wonder whether they are able to 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 window repairs broken air can enter more easily. This can reduce 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. Heating and cooling costs will rise.

If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from growing. A professional window repair service can repair any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to eliminate Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is small enough, you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Position the points so that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after your new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is possible.

A double-glazed window of good quality will have a gasket which is firmly compressed when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping might need to be replaced.

The lintel above the window can be an area of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that water is directed properly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another possible leak source is the gap between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most severe leaky window issue however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally an easy fix. This is due to the lack of air circulation around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mould in the long term, so it is best to have the window repaired when you can.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best approach to tackling this problem, as they will be able to suggest the best course of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is put back on.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to get into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes could assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, however it is normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the best quality possible. A reliable tradesperson can be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work that is completed that you would not get from DIY work.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise from time to time. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.

If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as soon as you can. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.

It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose offers a guarantee with their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a gap between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, thereby saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is cheaper for most households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged pane dependent on the frame type and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed windows are completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.