Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing you may be wondering if they can be repaired.
You may be able to claim your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
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 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 temporary fix, and will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit you must measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can 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 against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window could damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.
A good double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.
The lintel on top of the window can 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 merely put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
Another potential leak could be the gap between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to an old seal. Although this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows, it will have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this situation replacement double glazing might be a good idea. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily solved. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows. It is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it is worth looking further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is 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 block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould in time, so it's best to have the window repaired as soon as you can.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this problem, as they can determine the best 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 dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is reapplied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and they begin to become cloudy. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. This spacer bar is prone to cracking or breaking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee for the work completed that you could not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise occasionally. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.
Therefore, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect 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. So, if you've noticed any indications of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth more info looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and requesting quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, a gap between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from leaking into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you 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 usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but has not broken, that's usually the case. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.