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 failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.

Depending on the issue is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be eligible to receive your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. Based on the season it can allow cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is temporary fix and could just stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can fix any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on many layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that might fall.

To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that your new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wood frames, you can purchase points for glaziers at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

After your new pane is set, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the compound you choose. Smooth the compound on your new pane to make sure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The presence 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 can damage the drywall and plaster around the window. They can also cause damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is possible.

A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Also, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.

The lintel on top of the window can be a source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or have covered it with concrete leaving a gap that rainwater can enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another potential leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue with windows that leak but it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional can perform a full evaluation and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazing near me glazed windows and doors, but this can usually be easily solved. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. The droplets will disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to fix the window when you can.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most efficient way of dealing with this issue, as they can recommend the correct method of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by defective windowpane seals. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many 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 stuffed with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest quality. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty on the work done that you could not get if you were to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise occasionally. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's crucial to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.

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

When a double glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an area between them, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, thereby conserving energy.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.

Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged window. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but it isn't broken. If the double-glazed window is totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.