Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you’ve recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window’s glass is damaged or cracked, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.
If the crack isn’t too deep, you might be able to utilize an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and it could only stop the crack from growing. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
It is risky and challenging to replace windows on your own. If the crack is large and difficult to remove Try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement glass it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 – 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty level against the glass.
After the new pane is set, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or window repairs a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window’s frame or sash are a common issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can damage the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Any water that gets into this area must be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom 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 might require replacement.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick above the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
Another possible source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It’s possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of a worn out seal. While this isn’t the most serious issue associated with windows that leak but it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this situation, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. 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 necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue in older double-glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily fixed. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it’s worth looking further.
Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould over time It is therefore recommended to fix the window as soon as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best solution. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is put back on.
Double glazing condensation is caused by defective windowpane seals. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal breaks and causes them to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows have an “espacer” bar that is placed between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and in most cases, you’ll need to replace your entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if have the right tools, however it is usually better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some form of guarantee for the work done that you can’t get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances if they are not corrected promptly.
If you find any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it’s important to fix them as soon as you can. Issues like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It’s often cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble in your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn’t always the best choice and ensure that your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain IGUs contain argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, 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 cost-effective for a lot of households.
Depending on the kind of window glass repair near me you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it’s only developed a few small cracks, but is not damaged. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it’s recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.