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 may be wondering if they are able to be repaired.

Depending on what the issue 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 broken or cracked air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will rise.

If the crack in your double glazing isn't very deep, double Glazing it may be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and will only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass on double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large, you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. Once the pane is free you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty level against the glass.

After the new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent problem that occurs when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows could damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is shut. Any water that hits this area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

The lintel above the window can also be an area of leaks. The builders who constructed the home may not have been aware that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up 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 correctly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. While this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional can complete an extensive 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 be able to provide you a price for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it's generally an easy solution. This is caused by an absence of air circulation around the window and often is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it is worth looking further.

You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in the long run, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is applied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes could assist, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar contains desiccant that absorbs any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.

It is possible to do repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it is usually better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean that you get some type of guarantee for the work that is completed that you can't get from DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.

If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and make them appear ugly.

Repairing double glazing repair-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing, it's worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a gap between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, therefore conserving energy.

If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire upvc window repairs and is more affordable for many households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged window dependent on the type of frame and the condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the situation. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.