Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you might be wondering whether they are able to be repaired.
You may be able get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is broken or cracked air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from growing. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and challenging to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large you can use a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the glass is removed and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.
To install a replacement pane you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit correctly. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is shut. Any water that comes into this area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks over the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving website gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers could have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually an easy solution. It is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into 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 stop cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould in the long term Therefore, it is recommended to get the window fixed as soon as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off 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 applied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal fails, causing them to get clogged. Simple fixes may help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. However, this spacer bar can sometimes crack or break, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the right tools, but it is generally better to employ an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a great deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest possible quality. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you here wouldn't receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. here However, it's not indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and cause them to appear ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you notice any signs of problems with your here double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to here work with offers an assurance on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
It is possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the frame type and condition of your window. This is typically the case if it's just developed a few minor cracks, but is not damaged. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.