Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder if they can still be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and how long ago you bought them from the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. The cost of cooling and heating 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 a temporary fix however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is large and difficult to remove Try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it steady and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit 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 to this measurement. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put around the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it with a putty knife after the new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a common issue. This occurs when the sealant on windows has damaged and requires replacement. Eltham window repairs can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is feasible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which is firmly compressed when the sash closes. Any water that comes into the area should be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel that is a support for the brick that is over the window. The installers who built the house may not have realized that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to an old seal. Although this isn't the most serious issue associated with leaky windows but it could have an impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it makes sense 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 in older double-glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily fixed. This is due to a lack air flow around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is most likely because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could also lead to mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to fix the window as soon as you can.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best way of dealing with this issue, since they can recommend the correct procedure to take. Professional firms will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a quality seal is reapplied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged, causing them to get clogged. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most instances, the best option 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 stuffed with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can crack or break and in this situation, it is typically required to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean that you get some form of guarantee for the work carried out that you would not get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues may arise. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not addressed promptly enough.
As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger, then it's important to fix them in the earliest time possible. Issues like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It's often cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs contain argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the whole window and is far more cost-effective for most households.
It is possible to repair the damaged pane dependent on the kind of frame and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.