Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to show signs that they are failing, you may wonder whether they are able to be repaired.
Depending on the issue is and how long ago you purchased them, you may be able to get your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can fix any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool 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 lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned along the edge of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
Spread a thick layer with the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate 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 are a common issue. This happens when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window of good quality will have a gasket which expands with force when the sash closes. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel that is above the window can be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly, or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be the cause of leaks. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows it can affect efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can perform an exhaustive assessment and let you know the source of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common problem in older double glazed doors and windows, but it can be easily fixed. It is caused by a lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. The droplets will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is usually due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to get the window fixed as soon as possible.
A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Professional firms will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal will be reapplied.
The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most instances, the best option is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage, and issues can occur periodically. These issues can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and make them look unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in the repair of double glazed windows and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more affordable for the majority of households.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it's just developed a few minor cracks, but is not shattered. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.