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 can be repaired.
Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, and could be able to stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After removing the glass, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement glass, you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers at a hardware store to install on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a way that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane has been installed. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue like Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that can occur when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows could damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A good quality double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that enters the area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have just put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another leak could be the gap between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious issue associated with windows that leak however, it could affect energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this situation replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They will also help you decide whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to give you a quote for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is generally a simple solution. It is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window, and typically occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. The droplets will disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
There is also the sound of the sound of water drip. 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 could cause mold over time, so it's best to fix the window as quickly as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best option. 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.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes can aid, but in most instances, the best option is to replace the window.
A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. However, this spacer bar may crack or break, and in this case it is often required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it is usually better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. 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. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work that is completed that you can't get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise from time to time. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk, then it's important to fix them in the earliest time possible. Issues such as misting or leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.
It's usually more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. So, if you have noticed any indications of problems with your double glazing, you should consider looking for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and getting estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then fitted to the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cheaper for most households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the frame type and condition of the window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but not been broken, that's usually the case. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.