Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they could be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and could just prevent the crack from getting more severe. To get the best results, a reputable window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass that is present in double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large to be able to hold it in place and use a razor to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed then place it flat on several layers of newspapers to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it with a putty knife after the 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. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the chosen compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to make sure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the window sealant is deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window and also lead to damp or moldy walls that require to be fixed as soon as possible.
A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on this area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes get blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.
The lintel above the window can also be the source of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from entering the building.
Another possible leak source is the gap between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can complete an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend 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 price for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it's typically a simple fix. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional can examine 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 them, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned here glass windows, making them fog. Simple fixes can help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes break or crack and in this situation, it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesman will offer a guarantee for the work completed that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.
If you notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and cause them to appear ugly.
It's usually more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far more affordable for the majority of households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the type of frame and the condition of the window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.