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 might be wondering if they are able to be repaired.

You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is damaged or cracked it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow cold or hot air to escape or enter your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is temporary fix and could just stop the crack from becoming worse. A reputable upvc window repair repair service can repair any broken glass on double-glazed windows.

The process of replacing a damaged window pane by yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it in place and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free it is necessary to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new glass. Place the points in a way that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

Once your new pane has been placed, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco or a lesser product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a common problem. This occurs when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window can damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.

A good double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. Any water that gets into this area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks over the window. The installers who built the house may not have understood that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window repair, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed properly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another leak source is the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance replacing double glazing could be appropriate. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily corrected. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window and often happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking into further.

You can also hear water drip. This is most likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can also lead to mould in the long term, so it is best to have the window repaired when you can.

A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best solution. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is reapplied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal breaks, causing them to get clogged. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes could assist, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is usually located between the glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, thus keeping it out of 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 correctly. A trusted tradesman will also offer a guarantee on the work done that you could not receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, problems can occur. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed quickly.

If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider researching local companies that specialise in the repair of double-glazed windows and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the home and saves money on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, you can purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.

Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but hasn't broken, that's usually the case. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.