Twenty Myths About Repairs To Double Glazed Windows: Busted
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing, you may be wondering if they can be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing is not that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, and may be able to stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a reputable window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large, you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also result in damp or moldy walls that need to be fixed as soon as possible.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained out through the weepholes of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window could also be the source of leaks. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be the cause of leaks. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be positioned between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They will also help you decide if it is better to fix or replace the window. 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 this can usually be easily fixed. It is caused by the lack of air flow around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.
There is also the sound of the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould in time, so it's best to fix the window as quickly as possible.
A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar can be located between the glass panes of 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 creating condensation. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break, and in this case it is often required to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the highest quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work done 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 issues can occur from time to time. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and make them look ugly.
It's often cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you've noticed any indications of problems with your double glazing, you should consider looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double-glazed windows and getting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an area between them, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, thus conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged window based on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but it isn't broken. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.