Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder whether they could be repaired.
You might be able to get your
double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is damaged or cracked, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and barrier against the elements. This can cause cold or hot 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 isn't too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and may only prevent the crack from growing. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair service is required to fix any broken glass in double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane by yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. 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, you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and
Double glazing a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a replacement pane you'll need to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted you must measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wood frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put around the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
After the new pane is in place, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical problem that occurs when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window can damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window could require replacement.
The lintel that is above the window can be the source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and accumulate, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a source of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to an old seal. While this isn't the most serious issue associated with windows that leak, it will have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as quickly as possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and
double glazing recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is typically a simple fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows. It is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is usually due to 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 kind of issue can cause mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to fix the window as soon as you can.
A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Professional companies will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a good seal is reapplied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by defective windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes can assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes break or crack and in this instance, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do 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 highest possible quality. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In certain instances these flaws could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.
Therefore, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk, then it's important to fix them in the earliest time possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It's usually more cost effective to
upvc repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you have noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in the repairs of double-glazed windows and asking for estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen firm offers a guarantee on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the insulating gap.