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 can be fixed.
You may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.
If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to apply a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A reputable window repair service can repair any broken glass on double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it in place and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed then place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to place them along the edge of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using a putty knife after the new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using the compound you choose. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This happens when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster surrounding the window and also cause damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as possible.
A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that enters the area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes get blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is over the window. The builders who constructed the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater can enter and get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will prevent water entering the building.
Another potential leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem however, it could affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be the best option. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is generally a simple fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking into further.
Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is likely caused by a leak in the 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 type of issue can cause mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most efficient approach to tackling this issue, as they can determine the best procedure to take. 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 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 get into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes can assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that may occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can break or crack and in this instance, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it's usually better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you would not get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise periodically. In some instances, these faults may even be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.
If you notice any problems with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and make them look unsightly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, a space between them and the rubber seal that stops water from leaking into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the whole window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged window. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.