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 are able to be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them, you may be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause cold or hot air to escape or enter your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it will only stop the crack from growing. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

It is risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large, you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the glass is removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that might fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and Window doctor subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This happens when the sealant on windows has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can result in damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is possible.

A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick over the Window doctor. The builders who built the house might not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater can enter and accumulate, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from entering the building.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect energy efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can perform a full evaluation and let you know the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is typically an easy fix. It is caused by an absence of air flow around the window doctor, and typically occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem can cause mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed when you can.

A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most effective method of tackling this issue, as they can recommend the correct procedure to take. Professional firms will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a good seal will be reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes can assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can crack or break, and in this case it is typically required to replace the entire window.

It is possible to carry out some upvc repairs yourself if have the right tools, but it is usually better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the highest quality. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed promptly.

As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family at risk, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible. Problems like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows, and can make them look unattractive.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is much more cost-effective for most households.

It may be possible to repair the damaged window depending on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.