Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they could be fixed.
Depending on the issue is and the date you purchased them the store, you might be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you might be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only a temporary solution however, and it could only stop the crack from growing. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough, you can keep it in place 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 must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
In order to install a replacement pane you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane fits properly, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After the new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your chosen glazing compound with a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical issue. This happens when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks in the window can damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into the area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. Installers who built the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. A damaged seal could have caused argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue associated with leaky windows however, it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this situation replacement double glazing might be a good idea. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to repair or replace the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally an easy solution. It is caused by the lack of air flow around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window window and door repair near me is heated up by sunlight. However, if the problem persists it is worth investigating further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould over time, so it's recommended to fix the window as soon as you can.
A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is put back on.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks, causing them to get clogged. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and prevents it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may crack or break and in this instance, it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do some repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it's usually better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean that you get some type of guarantee for the work done which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and occasionally issues may arise. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk it is essential to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look ugly.
It is often far cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you've noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, you should consider searching for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and asking for quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
When a double glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a gap between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far cheaper for most households.
Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to repair the damaged window. This is typically the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but is not broken. If your double glazed window has completely broken, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.