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 failing you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You may be able get your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and could only prevent the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any damaged glass in double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large, you can hold it steady and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a way that allows for expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco, or a cheaper 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. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This happens when the window sealant has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can result in damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is possible.
A double-glazed window of good quality will have a gasket which compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained through the weep holes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window could require replacement.
The lintel that is above the window can also be a source of leaks. Installers who built the house might not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another possible leak source is the gap that exists between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. While this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is typically an easy solution. It is caused by a lack of air circulation around the window and often is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mould in time, so it is best to get the window repaired promptly.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best solution. Professional firms will take off the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them to fog. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and blocks it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar can break or crack, and in this case it is usually required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, however it is generally better to employ an expert who is trained to do this for you. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise from time to time. These flaws could be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as you can. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the performance of windows, and can cause them to look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any indications of trouble with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double glazed windows and asking for quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make window repairs Chingford that the company you choose offers the guarantee of their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, the space between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from leaking into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cheaper for most households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged glass based on the kind of frame and condition of your window. If the glass has developed only a few tiny chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the case. 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.