Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you might be wondering if they can still be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is damaged or cracked, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season it can allow warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.

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

Removing a damaged window pane yourself is tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough to be able to keep it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting 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 purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware store to place them on the outside of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

After your new pane has been placed then spread a thick layer of your glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound on your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.

A good double glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into the area should be drained out through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.

The lintel on top of the window could also be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water entering the building.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect efficiency and must be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting 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 will be able to also give you a quote for any necessary work.

Condensation

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

It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold over time, so it's best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal is damaged, causing them to become cloudy. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes can aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.

It is possible to complete repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, however it is normally better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesperson can be a good idea as it will give you some form of guarantee for the work done that you can't get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.

If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, you should consider searching for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and getting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best choice and ensure that the company offers a warranty with 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 a space in between, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from leaving your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.

It is possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the frame type and condition of the upvc window repairs near me. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but not been damaged, this is typically the case. If the double-glazed windows are completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.