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 could be fixed.

You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is temporary fix and will only prevent the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is difficult and risky. If the crack is too large to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that might fall.

To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. 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, buy some points for glaziers from hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

After your new pane is set then spread an even layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window could damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.

A double-glazed window of high quality has a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by the area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel which is a support for the brick that is above the window. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water entering the building.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a source of leaks. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is a frequent issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily corrected. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in kitchens and bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.

Another indicator of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may also lead to mould over time, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.

A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a good 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 fails and they begin to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, therefore preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a great amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work carried out that you can't get from DIY work.

Shattering

Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.

As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs (http://Bitetheass.com/User/kendoshow0) and requesting quotes. The lowest price may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.

When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes, with an opening in between and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much cheaper for most households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged glass based on the type of frame and the condition of your window. This is usually the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not broken. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.