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 can be fixed.

You may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.

Broken Panes

If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home based on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.

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

Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to make use of a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might 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 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wood frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

After the new pane has been placed then spread a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Be sure to 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 typical issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window. They can also cause damp or moldy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is possible.

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on this area must be drained through the weepholes in the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is above the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just put it in concrete and left an opening where rainwater could be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.

Another source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem, it will impact on efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional can perform a full evaluation and identify the source of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily solved. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window and often occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you hear water drips. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is put back on.

Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and causes them to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.

It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it's usually better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done, which you would not get if you were to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise from time to time. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.

Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk it is essential to fix them as soon as you can. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.

It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best choice and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then installed on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for many households.

Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not broken. If the double-glazed window is completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit and the upvc window repairs sash.