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 issue is and the date you bought them from the store, you might be able to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the season it can allow hot or cold 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 that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and may be able to stop the crack from getting worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any broken glass in your double glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large it is possible to make use of a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a replacement glass it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane fits properly you must 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 according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to place them on the edges of your new glass. Be sure to position the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After the 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 putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window. They can also cause damp or moldy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window of high quality will have a gasket which expands with force when the sash is closed. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes get blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can be an area of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be the cause of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue associated with windows that leak however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this case replacing double glazing could be appropriate. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They will also help you decide whether it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually a simple fix. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it is worth looking further.
Another indication of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is likely due to a damaged 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 cause mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to fix the window as soon as you can.
A professional can examine your window and recommend the best solution. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is put back on.
Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes could help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically located between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. However, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack and in this instance, it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee for the work completed, which you would not get if you were to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing technology that lets homeowners save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise from time to time. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed promptly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's crucial to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows can be more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth searching for local companies that specialize in the repair of double glazed windows and asking for quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a gap between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but has not damaged. If your double-glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.