Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

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

You may be able to claim your double glazing repaired under warranty based on the issue and the date you purchased it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution, though, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large 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 that you can hold it steady and use a razor blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that your new pane fits properly you must measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.

After the new pane is set then spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical issue. This happens when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window and also result in damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is possible.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area should be drained out through the weepholes of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.

The lintel on top of the window could also be a source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have clad it in concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater can enter and get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders could have placed angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water from entering the building.

Another potential leak could be the gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional can conduct a full evaluation and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They will also be able advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it's typically a simple fix. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the windows. It is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. These droplets will rapidly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it is worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drips. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it's best to have the window repaired promptly.

A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a good seal is reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and they begin to get clogged. Simple fixes can help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.

Most double glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and prevents it from reaching the glass. However, this spacer bar may crack or break and in this situation, it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a great amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. A trusted tradesman will also offer a guarantee on the work they have done that you wouldn't get if you were to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. These faults can be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and make them appear ugly.

It's often cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, the space between them and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore saving you 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 typically less expensive than replacing the entire upvc window repairs near me and is more cost-effective for a lot of households.

Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to repair the damaged part. This is typically the case when it has just developed a few minor cracks, but it isn't 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 the window sash.