Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you purchased them the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is damaged or cracked it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.

If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and may only prevent the crack from growing. To get the best results, a reputable window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is extensive and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large you can make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Position the points so that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

Spread a thick layer with the blade of a putty maker after your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common problem that occurs when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window could damage the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.

A high-quality double-glazed window has a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks above the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to 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 may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water entering the building.

Another potential leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes of double-glazed units. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation replacement double glazing might be the best option. A professional can complete an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to repair or replace the window. They will also be able to provide you a price for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is generally an easy fix. This is due to the lack of air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould over time, so it's recommended to fix the window promptly.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most efficient method of tackling this issue, since they can suggest the best procedure to take. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a great amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work carried out that you can't get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, issues may arise. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.

As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk, then it's important to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows, and can leave them looking unsightly.

It's often cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs near me glazed window repairs and getting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best choice and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.

When a double glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes, with an opening in between and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire upvc window repair near me and is more cost-effective for most households.

It is possible to repair the damaged pane dependent on the kind of frame and condition of the window. If the glass has developed only a few tiny chips, but hasn't shattered, this is usually the case. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.