Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they could be repaired.
Depending on what the problem is and when you bought them from, you may be able to get your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season it can allow warm or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service is required to fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to use a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut it is necessary to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers at a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
After your new pane has been placed then spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This occurs when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around windows could damage the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of good quality has a gasket that expands with force when the sash closes. The water that enters this area must be drained out through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping might need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can also be the source of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely 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 wood rot. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
Another possible leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily fixed. This is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold in time, so it is best to fix the window promptly.
A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best option. 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 high-quality seal is reapplied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and causes them to fog up. Simple fixes can help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may occur, therefore stopping it from read more getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. However, this spacer bar can crack or break, and in this case it is often required to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done that you can't get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage and problems can arise from time to time. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected quickly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows and also cause them to look ugly.
It's usually more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you have noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, you should consider searching for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and asking for estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, the space between them, and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for many households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged window. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not broken. If your double-glazed window is completely cracked and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.