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 might be wondering if they are able to 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 to pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and could only stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large you can make use of a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty level against the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it 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 frame and pane using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound over the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of good quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes be blocked by dirt and other debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick over the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can 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 water is directed properly and this will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes of double-glazed units. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious issue associated with leaky windows but it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be a good idea. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily solved. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking into further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional firms will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal breaks and causes them to get clogged. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done that you would not get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.
If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and cause them to appear ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs to double Glazed windows and asking for estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, the space between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from leaking into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, therefore saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought 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 a lot of households.
Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If your double glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.