Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.

You may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in your double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and will only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and challenging to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is substantial 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 remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After removing the glass 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 buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. 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 that they allow for expansion and contraction, glaziers while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after the new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality has a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. Any water that hits this area should be drained out through the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.

The lintel on top of the window could also be an area of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have understood that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another potential leak could be the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be appropriate. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They can also tell you whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily solved. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. The droplets will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indicator of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is most likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould in time, so it's recommended to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, since they will be able to determine the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is reapplied.

The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal breaks and they begin to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to do some upvc door repairs near me yourself if you have the right tools, but it's generally better to employ an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not only save you a great amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest quality. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean that you get some kind of assurance for the work done that you would not get from DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues can arise. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances if they're not addressed promptly.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and make them appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, a gap between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from leaking into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It prevents heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been 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 cost-effective for most households.

It is possible to repair the damaged pane based on the type of frame and the condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but it isn't shattered. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.