Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they can be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause warm or cold air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to apply a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary solution, though, and it may only prevent the crack from getting worse. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough to be able to hold it steady and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
Once your new pane has been placed then spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound using a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on the area should be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window could also be a source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up 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 the water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out from the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue however, it could affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this case replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional can complete an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a quote for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is usually an easy solution. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window and often is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This could be due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may also lead to mould in time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this problem, as they can recommend the correct method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure a quality seal is put back on.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
It is upvc repairs possible to carry out some repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it is generally better to employ a trained professional to do this for you. This will not only save you a huge deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty for the work completed, which you would not 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. However, it isn't indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.
It's often cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. 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 quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best choice 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). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is much more cost-effective for most households.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.