Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they can be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is damaged or cracked it allows air move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only a temporary fix, and may just prevent the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair service is required to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is large and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large, you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane fits properly you must 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 to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
Spread a thick layer with the blade of a putty maker after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent problem that occurs when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window. They can also result in damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as is possible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality has a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash closes. Aldershot double glazing that comes into this area must be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick above the window. The people who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows however, it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as quickly as possible. In this instance replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and let you know the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is usually an easy solution. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window and often is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.
Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is most likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold over time, so it's recommended to get the window repaired as soon as you can.
A professional can examine your window and suggest the best solution. Professional firms will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal is applied.
The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and they begin to fog up. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. However, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack, and in this case it is often required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it is normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not just save you a good deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the best quality possible. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee for the work completed that you could not get if you attempted 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 is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. These faults can be dangerous in some instances if they are not corrected promptly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the effectiveness of the windows and cause them to look ugly.
It's often more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. 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 getting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best choice and make sure that the company offers a warranty with 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, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged it is possible to replace the pane purchased 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 many households.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.