Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.

Depending on the issue is and when you bought them from You may be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix and may be able to stop the crack from becoming worse. To get the best results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any broken glass in your double glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to remove, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large, you can make use of a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free it is necessary to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a new glass pane, you will need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and window repair subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware shop to install on the edges of your new glass. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

After your new pane is set then spread a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and Window repair drywall surrounding the window and also result in damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as possible.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which expands with force when the sash closes. Any water that comes into the area should be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another possible source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue with leaky windows however, it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be required. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, but this can usually be easily corrected. This is due to a lack air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.

There is also the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould over time It is therefore recommended to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional companies will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal breaks and causes them to get clogged. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is skilled in doing this. You'll save lots of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Using a trusted tradesman can be a good idea as it will give you some form of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from DIY jobs.

Shattering

Double glazing is a fantastic technology that lets homeowners save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage and there are issues that can arise periodically. In some cases 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's crucial to address them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and make them appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of 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 the gas argon. It keeps heat from leaving the home and saves money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is far more cost-effective for most households.

Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged part. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but has not damaged. If the double-glazed window is totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.