Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you may be wondering if they can be fixed.

Depending on what the issue is and the date you purchased them, you may be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.

If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only temporary fix and could only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.

It is risky and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough to be able to hold it steady and use a razor blade to cut it off from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must 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. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit 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 to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

After your new pane is in place then spread a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.

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

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks over the window. The people who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be the cause of leaks. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem, it will impact on energy efficiency and repaired should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a quote for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is usually an easy solution. This is due to the lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould in time, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as you can.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most efficient approach to tackling this issue, as they will be able to determine the best method of action. Professional firms will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal is reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and causes them to get clogged. Simple fixes may aid, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture and prevents it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may crack or break and in this instance, it is usually required to replace the entire emergency window repair.

It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's usually better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not only save you a huge deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest quality. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a warranty on the work done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, issues may arise. In some instances these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.

As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger It is crucial to fix them as soon as possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and make them appear ugly.

It's usually cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you've noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, it's worth searching for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and getting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and ensure 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). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes, repaired with a space in between, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs contain argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.

Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but hasn't shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed windows are completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.