Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of in danger, you might wonder whether they are able to be repaired.

You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or window repair broken, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause warm or cold air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only a temporary solution however, and may only prevent the crack from getting worse. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is extensive and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is not too large you can make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware store to be positioned along the edge of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

After your new pane is in place then spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound with a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window and also lead to damp or moldy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is feasible.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which expands with force when the sash closes. Any water that gets into this area must be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Or, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

The lintel that is above the window can also be an area of leaks. The people who built the house may not have realized that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly 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 worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will affect energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as quickly as possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally a simple fix. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as quickly as possible.

A professional can examine 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 dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and they begin to fog up. Simple fixes can help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, however it is usually better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee for the work completed that you wouldn't get if you were to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time problems can occur. In certain instances these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk it is essential to have them fixed as soon as possible. Faults such as misting and water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows, and can cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing, it's worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting quotes. The most affordable quote might not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose has the guarantee of their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold in 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 prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is far more cost-effective for most households.

Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to repair the damaged part. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but is not damaged. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.