Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

Depending on what the issue is and how long ago you bought them from the store, you might be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack in your double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. A professional window repair company can repair any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough, you can keep it in place and use a razor blade to cut it away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some glaziers' points at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for cheapest expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

Spread a thick layer of it with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window, and can cause damp or moldy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is possible.

A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is closed. Any water that hits this area must be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.

The lintel that is above the window can be an area of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have realized that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water entering the building.

Another potential leak could be the gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and identify the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily fixed. It is caused by an absence of air flow around the window, and typically occurs in rooms 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. However, if the issue persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indication of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is most likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to have the window repaired when you can.

A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best solution. Professional companies will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a quality seal is reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main reason for condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to become cloudy. Simple fixes can help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could be present, thereby keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack and in this instance, it is usually required to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work carried out that you would not get from DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur periodically. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.

Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk It is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues such as misting or leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.

It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing, it's worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes with an opening in between and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs contain argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a large number of households.

Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged part. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.