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.
Depending on the issue is and how long ago you purchased them the store, you might be eligible to receive your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is damaged or cracked it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will rise.
If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it may only prevent the crack from getting worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspapers to catch any fragments that may fall.
To install a replacement glass, you'll need to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install along the edge of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.
A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into this area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel above the window could also be a source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house might not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or have covered it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could enter and accumulate, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water entering the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be the cause of leaks. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is usually an easy solution. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows. It is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists, it's worth looking into further.
Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drips. This is most 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 prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to have the window repaired when you can.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most efficient way of dealing with this issue, as they can recommend the correct procedure to take. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is put back on.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal is damaged, causing them to become cloudy. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is usually located between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break and in this instance, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, however it is generally better to employ an experienced professional to carry out this for you. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean that you get some kind of assurance for the work done that you can't get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. But it's not impervious to damage and occasionally issues may arise. In certain instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.
If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's crucial to fix them as quickly as you can. Problems like misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows, and can make them look unattractive.
It's often more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you've noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in the repairs of double glazed windows and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price 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 in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for many households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.