Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they can be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. 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 could only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to replace windows 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 remove it. If the crack isn't too large, you can keep it in place and use a razor blade to remove it from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using a putty blade once your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster surrounding the window, and can cause damp or moldy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is possible.
A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. The water that enters the area should be drained through the weepholes of 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 need to be replaced.
The lintel that is above the window can be a source of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving an opening where rainwater could be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. A worn seal could have caused argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows it can affect energy efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and identify the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily fixed. This is due to an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
Another sign of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended since it will window repair prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold in time, so it is best to have the window repaired promptly.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional companies will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal will be reapplied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. Simple fixes may help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.
It is possible to complete repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it is normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a warranty for the work completed that you wouldn't receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise occasionally. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.
If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's crucial to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.
It's often cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. So, if you have noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double-glazed windows and asking for estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best choice and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a large number of households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged window. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.