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 could be fixed. Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be able to get your double glazing back under warranty. Broken Panes When a window pane is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase. If the crack in your double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and may only stop the crack from becoming more severe. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows. Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is difficult and risky. If the crack is extensive and difficult to get rid of You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is small enough to be able to keep it in place and use a razor to cut it away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall. To install a new glass pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that your new pane is a good fit. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at an hardware store to place on the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass. Spread a thick layer of it with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level all around your pane. Water Leaks The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is possible. A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Water that falls on the area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced. The lintel that is above the window could also be an area of leaks. 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, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps. A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a cause of leaks. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They will also be able advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a price for any necessary work. Condensation Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is generally an easy solution. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows. It is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth investigating further. It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould in time, so it's best to fix the window as quickly as possible. A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, since they will be able to determine the best method of action. Professional firms will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a good seal is reapplied. Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows. A spacer bar is usually located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that might be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is often necessary to replace the entire window. It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the right tools, but it is generally better to employ a trained professional to do this for you. You'll save lots of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with DIY work. Shattering Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. In some cases these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough. If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as possible. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and cause them to look ugly. It's often cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work. Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, the space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thus conserving energy. If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is much more affordable for the majority of households. Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged window. This is typically the case when it has just developed a few minor cracks, but is not shattered. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.
window repairs
