12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
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 failing, you may be wondering if they could be fixed.
Depending on what the issue is and when you purchased them, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Based on the season it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is temporary fix, and may only stop the crack from becoming more severe. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new glass. Be sure to install the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty like Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is level and even.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks over the window. The people who built the house may not have realized that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up 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 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 could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be required. A professional can conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also be able to advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent problem in older double glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily solved. This is caused by the lack of air flow around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. Reading double glazing will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is usually because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould over time It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed when you can.
A professional can examine your window and suggest the best solution. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is applied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal breaks and causes them to get clogged. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean that you get some form of guarantee for the work carried out which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a gap between them and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like Argon that helps to prevent heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then installed on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cheaper for most households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but not been damaged, this is typically the situation. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.