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 may be wondering if they can be fixed.

You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause warm or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is temporary fix, and will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass that is present in double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it in place and use a razor blade to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After removing the glass and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.

To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane is a good fit. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers at a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

After the new pane has been placed, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound with a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks in a window repairs's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This happens when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window and also result in damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as possible.

A good double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked by dirt and debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. The installers who built the house may not have realized that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving an opening where rainwater could get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem however, it could affect efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can complete a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They will also help you decide whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually an easy fix. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most evident indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass surface. The droplets will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.

Another indication of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is usually caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it's best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.

A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most efficient way of dealing with this problem, as they will be able to suggest the best method of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is put back on.

Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and causes them to fog up. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most instances, the best option is to replace the window.

A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can break or crack and in this situation, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is skilled in doing this. This will not only save you a great amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the best quality possible. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise from time to time. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.

If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and make them look unsightly.

It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you have noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, you should consider looking for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and getting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes with an opening in between and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs contain the gas argon. It prevents heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far more cost-effective for most households.

It is possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is typically the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't damaged. If the double-glazed window is totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.