Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder whether they are able to be fixed.

You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will rise.

If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, and will just prevent the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can fix any broken glass on double-glazed windows.

The process of replacing a damaged window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large that you can keep it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane fits properly, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new glass. Make sure to place the points in a manner that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat 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 lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to make sure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks in the window could damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.

A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by the area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.

The lintel on top of the window can be a source of leaks. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving an opening where rainwater could get in and build up around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another potential leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious issue with windows that leak but it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this case double glazed window repairs glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can complete a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to repair or replace the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally an easy fix. It is caused by the lack of air flow around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This could be due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it's best to fix the window promptly.

A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and causes them to become cloudy. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is typically located between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.

It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's usually better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. In some instances these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can reduce the effectiveness of the windows, and can make them look unattractive.

It's usually more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the most effective and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from leaving your home, thereby conserving energy.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is far more affordable for the majority of households.

It is possible to repair the damaged window depending on the type of frame and the condition of your window. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the case. If your double-glazed window has completely broken and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.