Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
Depending on what the issue is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This could cause hot or cold air to enter your home based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary fix, and may just stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any broken glass in your double glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large to be able to hold it in place and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free it is necessary to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a replacement glass it is necessary to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical problem that occurs when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window, and can result in damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is feasible.
A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Any water that hits this area must be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel that is above the window could also be a source of leaks. The builders who built the house might not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could get in and then accumulate, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water entering the building.
Another potential leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. Although this isn't the most serious issue associated with windows that leak however, it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can perform an exhaustive assessment and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily fixed. This is due to a lack of air flow around the window and often occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
There is also the sound of the sound of water drip. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mould over time, so it is best to get the window fixed as soon as you can.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, as they will be able to suggest the best course of action. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal will be reapplied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by defective windowpane seals. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal fails, causing them to fog up. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes and creating condensation. However, this spacer bar can break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed quickly.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger It is crucial to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and cause them to appear ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you see any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best choice and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a space between them, and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, therefore conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then installed on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged part. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but is not shattered. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.