Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to show signs that they are in danger, you might wonder whether they could be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and protection against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will rise.
If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, and could just stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a reputable window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass in your double glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it steady and use a razor to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed then place it flat on many layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wood frames, buy some points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows for expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.
Once your new pane has been placed, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a common problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around windows could damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of good quality has a gasket that expands with force when the sash closes. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is over the window. Installers who built the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater can enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be a good idea. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to repair or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily fixed. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window and often happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
Another indication of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould in the long term It is therefore recommended to fix the window as soon as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Double condensation in the glazing is caused by faulty windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may be present, thereby keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. This spacer bar is prone to cracking or breaking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.
window repairs near me can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from DIY work.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and problems can arise occasionally. These flaws could be dangerous in certain instances if they're not addressed quickly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It is often far cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. So, if you've noticed any indications of trouble with your double glazing, you should consider searching for local companies that specialize in the repair of double glazed windows and getting estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, a space between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from leaking into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to 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 more affordable for many households.
It is possible to repair the damaged pane dependent on the kind of frame and condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the case. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.