Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you might be wondering whether they could be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Based on the season this could cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is temporary fix and could only stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
It is risky and challenging to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to place them on the edges of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
After the new pane is in place, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on your new pane to make sure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window could damage the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in 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. Although this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be the best option. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is typically an easy fix. This is due to a lack air flow around the windows. It is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould over time, so it's recommended to have the window repair ed promptly.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, since they will be able to suggest the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by defective windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes can assist, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. However, this spacer bar can sometimes crack or break, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesman will offer a guarantee on the work done that you could not get if you were to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It is often far more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you've noticed any indications of trouble with your double glazing, consider looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has an assurance on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, the space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore saving you 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 normally far cheaper than replacing the whole window and is far more cost-effective for most households.
It is possible to repair the damaged window based on the kind of frame and condition of your window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but hasn't shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.