Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder if they can still be fixed.
Depending on the issue is and how long ago you purchased them, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken it allows air move more easily, which reduces the windows' efficiency as insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted you must measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. 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 wood frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it with the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window, and can lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.
A double-glazed window of high quality will have a gasket which compresses firmly when the sash closes. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes be blocked by dirt and other debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply put it in concrete and left 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 may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be appropriate. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and let you know the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They will also help you decide if it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily solved. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass's surface. The droplets will disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mold in the long run, so it is best to fix the window when you can.
A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best solution. Professional companies will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal is applied.
Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is often required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's generally better to employ an expert who is trained to do this for you. You'll save lots of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.
If you notice any problems with 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 leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and also cause them to look ugly.
It is often far more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, a space between them, and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far more cost-effective for most households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the frame type and condition of your window. This is usually the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but is not damaged. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.