Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
Depending on the issue is and the date you bought them from You may be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will rise.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution, though, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. A professional window repair service can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to get rid of Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large, you can make use of a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.
In order to install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install along the edge of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
After your new pane is in place, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can damage the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls.
A good double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into the area should be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel above the window could also be a source of leaks. The builders who built the house may not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have covered it with concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then accumulate, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to repair or replace the window. They will be able to also give you a quote for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is typically an easy solution. It is caused by the lack of air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. The droplets will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it is worth looking further.
You can also hear water drip. This is usually due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in the long run, so it is best to get the window fixed as soon as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most efficient way of dealing with this issue, since they can determine the best procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a good seal will be reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break, and in this case it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur from time to time. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases when they aren't addressed quickly.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk it is essential to have them fixed as soon as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the effectiveness of the windows and also cause them to look ugly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best choice and make sure that the company has a warranty on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an area window and door repairs near me between them, and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged part. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but not been damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.