Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they can be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and when you bought them from, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause hot or cold air to flow into or out of your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and could only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass in your double glazed windows.

It could be risky and difficult to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is extensive and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large, you can use a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut it is necessary to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.

To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from an hardware store to place on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows for expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.

Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around your new pane to make sure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is shut. The water that enters this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or Window Doctor Near Me the weather stripping around the window replacement near me might need to be replaced.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which holds the bricks over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving 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 builders should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out from the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and identify the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to provide you a price for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed doors and windows, but it can be easily fixed. This is due to an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.

It is also possible to hear water drip. This could be due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould in time, so it's recommended to fix the window as quickly as possible.

A professional can examine your Window Doctor Near Me and suggest the best option. Professional firms will take off the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes could help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.

Most double glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a guarantee on the work done that you could not get if you attempted to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, problems can occur. These issues can be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed promptly.

If you notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the effectiveness of the windows, and can cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best choice and make sure that the company has a warranty on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a space between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more affordable for the majority of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged window dependent on the frame type and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't shattered. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.