Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazed window repairs glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.

You may be able get your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and Window Repair protection against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause cold or hot air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and may only prevent the crack from growing. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.

It is risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is extensive and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large, you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.

To install a replacement pane it is necessary to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.

Spread a thick layer using a putty blade once your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the new pane and frame with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to make sure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This occurs when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window could damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.

A good double glazed window has a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.

The lintel that is above the window could also be a source 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 just clad it with concrete leaving an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work needed.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is usually an easy solution. This is due to the lack of air flow around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. The droplets will disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.

It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, since they can determine the best method of action. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and they begin to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution is to replace the windows.

Most double glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may occur, thus stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. However, this spacer bar may crack or break and in this situation, it is usually required to replace the entire window.

It is possible to do some repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it is generally better to employ an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not just save you a good deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work carried out 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 while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. But it's not impervious to damage and, from time to time, problems can occur. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.

If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk it is essential to fix them as soon as possible. Faults such as misting and water leaks can damage the performance of windows and cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes with an opening in between and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, thereby saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and Window Repair then installed on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.

Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to repair the damaged pane. This is typically the case when it has only developed a few small cracks, but has not broken. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.