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 failure, you may be wondering if they could be fixed.

Depending on what the issue is and when you purchased them, you may be able to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is damaged or cracked, it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season this could cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix and could only stop the crack from becoming more severe. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be called to repair any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and challenging to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big 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, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a 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 replacement glass, you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane is properly fitted take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to place them on the edges of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

After your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply 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 cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound so that it is even and level all around your pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This happens when the window sealant is deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.

A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that expands with force when the sash closes. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.

Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that holds the bricks above the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater can enter and pool around creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes of double-glazed units. It is possible that argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to the seal being worn out. While this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak, it will have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this instance, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They will also be able to advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually an easy solution. It is caused by an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking into further.

Another indication of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. 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 mold in the long run Therefore, it is recommended to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, as they will be able to suggest the best course of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.

Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and they begin to become cloudy. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. This spacer bar is prone to cracking or breaking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window replacement.

You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a great deal of time, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest quality. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.

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 as soon as possible. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the performance of windows and cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is typically cheaper than replacing them. If you see any indications of trouble in your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance 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 gap between them and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.

It is possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is usually the case when it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not damaged. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.