Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you may wonder whether they are able to be fixed.
Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and protection against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in your double glazing is not that deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary solution however, and will only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can fix any broken glass on double-glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is extensive and difficult to eliminate Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large, you can hold it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting 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 then prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 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 at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install along the edge of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a manner that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After your new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your glazing compound using the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the compound you choose. Smooth the compound on your new pane to make sure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window, and can lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is feasible.
A double-glazed window of good quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window could need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can also be an area of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, check here leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed correctly and this will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem, it will impact on energy efficiency and must be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can perform a full evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll also be able to advise whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it's generally a simple solution. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in rooms like 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 by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is when you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold in time, so it's recommended to fix the window promptly.
A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Double condensation in the glazing is caused by faulty windowpane seals. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and blocks it from reaching the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional 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 properly and of the best quality possible. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some form of guarantee for the work that is completed that you can't get from DIY work.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage and problems can arise occasionally. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to appear ugly.
It is often far more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. So, if you've noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise 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.
A double-glazed window will be sold as 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 which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby conserving energy.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for many households.
It is possible to repair the damaged glass based on the frame type and condition of your window. This is typically the case when it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not damaged. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.