Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to show signs that they are failing, you may wonder whether they are able to be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and could only stop the crack from becoming worse. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane is a good fit. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the appropriate compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is shut. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can also be a source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water getting into the building.
Another possible source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious problem with windows that leak however, it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the source of the leak. window repairs can also recommend solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, but it can be easily fixed. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.
It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould in the long term, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best way of dealing with this issue, as they will be able to recommend the correct course of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is put back on.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack, and in this case it is usually required to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with DIY work.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise occasionally. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and make them look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows can be more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double-glazed windows and getting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
When a double glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a gap between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more cost-effective for most households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the case. If your double-glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.