Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to show signs that they are failing, you may wonder if they can still be fixed.
Depending on what the issue is and when you purchased them, you may be in a position to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is broken or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home, based 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 apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any broken glass in 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 isn't too large that you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. When the pane is cut free you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit you must measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the window sealant has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window and also cause damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.
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 must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can be the source of leaks. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, creating 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. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can perform an extensive evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is typically a simple solution. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window and often happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.
Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is usually because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold over time, so it's recommended to get the window repaired as soon as you can.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, as they can determine the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between them, this will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is reapplied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to become cloudy. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that might be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to cracking or breaking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
window repairs near me is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, however it is normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out 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 properly and of the highest possible quality. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work done that you can't get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family at risk it is essential to fix them as soon as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you've noticed any indications of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth looking for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has a guarantee with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from leaving your home, therefore conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window maker and then installed on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more cost-effective for most households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged window. This is typically the case when it has only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't damaged. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.