11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually Acceptable To Use With Your Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they can be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass in your double glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to use a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face 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'll need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 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 a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some glaziers' points at a hardware store to install on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After your new pane has been placed then spread a thick layer of your preferred glazing compound using the help of 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 frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical problem that occurs when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A good quality double glazed window has a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is shut. Any water that hits this area must be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will prevent water entering the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be the cause 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 is not the most serious issue associated with windows that leak, it will affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is typically a simple solution. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window and often is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. window repairs Edgware will evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it is worth looking further.
Another sign of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may also lead to mould over time, so it's best to have the window repaired promptly.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best approach to tackling this problem, as they will be able to recommend the correct method of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by windowpane seals. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. Simple fixes may help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically located between the glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may occur, thus preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it's more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. But it's not impervious to damage and occasionally problems can occur. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as soon as possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the effectiveness of windows and make them appear ugly.
It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and ensure that your chosen firm offers a guarantee on their work.
When a double glazed window is sold, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, a gap between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to repair the damaged part. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the case. If your double glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.