Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you might be wondering whether they could be repaired.
You may be able get your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.
If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. To get the best results, a reputable window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large, you can keep it in place and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase glaziers' points at a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
After your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound with a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to make sure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical issue. This happens when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel that is above the window can also be the source of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have just put it in concrete and left an opening where rainwater could be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be the cause of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can perform a full evaluation and reveal the source of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They can also tell you whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They will be able to also give you a quote for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily fixed. This is caused by the lack of air flow around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
Another indicator of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is most likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould in the long term Therefore, it is recommended to fix the window as soon as you can.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, as they can recommend the correct method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is put back on.
Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When Chatham double glazing fails, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. Simple fixes can aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is usually located between the glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a great deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work that is completed that you would not get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and problems can arise periodically. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the effectiveness of the windows and also leave them looking unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, you should consider looking for local companies that specialize in the repair of double glazed windows and asking for estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes that have a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby conserving energy.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to repair the damaged window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the situation. If your double glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.