Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you may wonder whether they are able to be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

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

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can use a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.

After the new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the new pane and frame using the appropriate compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also lead to damp or moldy walls that need 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 hits the area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, near or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

The lintel above the window could also be a source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater can enter and accumulate, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will prevent 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 damaged seal could have caused argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem however, it could affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is typically an easy fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mold in the long run, so it is best to fix the window when you can.

A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best option. Most professional companies will remove 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 reapplied.

Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes in most double glazed window repairs-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it's generally better to employ a trained professional to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and problems can arise periodically. These issues can be dangerous in some instances if they are not corrected quickly.

As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows, near and can leave them looking unsightly.

It's usually more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. 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 requesting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best choice. Be 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). It is made up of two glass panes, near a space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving 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 maker and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more cost-effective for most households.

It may be possible to repair the damaged window depending on the frame type and condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the case. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.