Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be repaired.

Depending on what the issue is and when you bought them from the store, you might be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is temporary fix and may just prevent the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and difficult to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large, you can make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free it is necessary 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 purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

After your new pane has been placed then spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window, and can result in damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is possible.

A high-quality double-glazed window has a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.

The lintel above the window could also be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another potential leak could be 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 in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious problem with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this situation, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They will also be able advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it's generally an easy fix. It is caused by a lack of air flow around the window and often occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.

It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould in the long term It is therefore recommended to fix the window when you can.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective method of tackling this issue, since they can suggest the best procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal will be reapplied.

Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal breaks, causing them to become cloudy. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. However, this spacer bar may break or crack, and in this case it is usually required to replace the entire window.

You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. Using a trusted tradesman can be a good idea as it will give you some type of guarantee for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an amazing innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's important to fix them as quickly as you can. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the performance of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

It is often far cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing, it's worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. The lowest price may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose has a guarantee with their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then installed on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for many households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the frame type and condition of your window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.