Watch Out: How Repairs To Double Glazed Windows Is Taking Over And What You Can Do About It

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you might be wondering whether they could be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them the store, you might be in a position to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Based on the season this could cause cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary fix, though, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. A professional  window repair  company can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane by yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. 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 isn't too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that 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 inches in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit correctly. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. 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. Be sure to position the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Spread a thick layer of it with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using your chosen compound. Make sure you 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 common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window, and can lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as possible.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash closes. Any water that hits the area should be drained out through the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks above the window. Installers who built the house might not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a 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. Although this is not the most serious problem with leaky windows however, it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can perform a full evaluation and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a very common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily fixed. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window and often occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould in time, so it's best to fix the window as soon as you can.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this problem, as they will be able to suggest the best method of action. Professional firms will take off the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from reaching the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it's generally better to employ an expert who is trained to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed promptly.

If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's crucial to address them as quickly as you can. Faults such as misting and water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows and make them look unattractive.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you spot any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research 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 firm offers a guarantee on their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, the space between them, and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs.

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

It may be possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the type of frame and the condition of the window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not damaged. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.