Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to show signs that they are failing, you may wonder if they can still be fixed.
window repair near me may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary fix, and could just stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
It is risky and challenging to replace windows on your own. 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 that you can hold it in place and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware store to place them along the edge of your new glass. Position the points so they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
After your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your preferred glazing compound using a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a common issue. This happens when the window sealant has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window could damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of good quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash closes. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, 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 may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or have covered it with concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then accumulate, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will prevent water entering the building.
Another potential leak source is the gap between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and identify the source of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They will be able to also give you a quote for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is usually a simple fix. This is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mould over time, so it's best to get the window repaired 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 that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal breaks and causes them to get clogged. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and blocks it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes crack or break, and in this case it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest quality. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you wouldn't get if you attempted to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible, and issues can occur occasionally. These faults can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as soon as you can. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and make them look unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is far cheaper for most households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the frame type and condition of your window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not shattered. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.