Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is broken or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will rise.
If Stevenage window repairs is not too deep, you may be able to utilize an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and challenging to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough, you can hold it steady and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the glass is removed and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that might fall.
To install a replacement glass, you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to place them on the outside of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue like Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the compound you choose. Smooth the compound over the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also result in damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is possible.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. Any water that comes into the area should be drained away via the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.
The lintel that is above the window can also be an area of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could enter and pool around creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
Another possible leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be positioned between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to an old seal. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can perform a full evaluation and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also tell you whether it is better to repair or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a quote for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily solved. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows. It is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. However, if the problem persists it is worth investigating further.
Another indicator of condensation is when you hear water drips. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can cause mould in the long term, so it is best to have the window repaired when you can.
A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is applied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes could help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
A spacer bar can be found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can be a good idea as it will give you some form of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues can arise. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and make them appear ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows can be more cost-effective than replacing them. If you spot any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting quotes. The lowest price may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, thus conserving energy.
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 normally far cheaper than replacing the whole window and is far more affordable for the majority of households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the frame type and condition of your window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but hasn't shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed windows are completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.