Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
Depending on what the issue is and when you purchased them You may be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause hot or cold air to flow into or out of your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is temporary fix, and will only stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is extensive and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large, you can use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After the pane has been cut you must place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
In order to install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that your new pane will fit correctly. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to make sure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This happens when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also cause damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is possible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which is firmly compressed when the sash closes. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving an opening where rainwater could be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed properly and this will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another leak could be the gap between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and identify the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They can also advise if it is better to fix or replace the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is usually a simple fix. This is due to a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould in the long term, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, since they will be able to recommend the correct procedure to take. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will upvc door repair evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is applied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's generally better to employ a trained professional to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and problems can arise from time to time. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected quickly.
As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as you can. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It's often cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose offers a guarantee with their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes with an area between them, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like Argon that helps to prevent heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged an alternative pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for the majority of households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the kind of frame and condition of the window. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the situation. If your double-glazed window is completely cracked, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.