Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.
You may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.
If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is temporary fix, and could only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a reputable window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
In order 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 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane is a good fit. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some glaziers' points at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place 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 of it with a putty blade once your new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level all around your pane.
Water Leaks
The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common problem that occurs when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window and also lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is feasible.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick above the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water entering the building.
Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes in the 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. While this isn't the most serious issue with windows that leak, it will have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and reveal the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They can also advise if it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is usually an easy fix. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window and often is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will quickly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it is worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould in time, so it's best to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional will inspect 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 space between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is put back on.
The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
Most double glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. However, this spacer bar may crack or break and in this instance, it is usually required to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, window repairs near me is more common to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesman will offer a guarantee on the work they have done, which you would not get if you were to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, problems can occur. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk, then it's important to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows and also leave them looking unsightly.
It's often cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a gap between them and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, therefore conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the whole window and is much cheaper for most households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged window dependent on the type of frame and the condition of your window. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the situation. If your double glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.