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 what the issue is and the date you bought them from the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is broken or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. A reputable window repair service can fix any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is substantial and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it in place and use a razor to cut it away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Then 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 store to place them on the edges of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using a putty blade once the new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical issue. This occurs when the window sealant is deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window. They can also lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is feasible.
A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is closed. Any water that hits this 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. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks above the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater can enter and accumulate, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows because of an old seal. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can perform a full evaluation and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to replace or repair the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, but it can be easily fixed. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is usually due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired as soon as you can.
A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a quality seal is reapplied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal breaks, causing them to fog up. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done that you would not get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur from time to time. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.
If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Problems like misting and leaks of water can affect the performance of windows, and can leave them looking unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is 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 more affordable for many households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged pane. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but has not broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.