Why We Love Repairs To Double Glazed Windows (And You Should Also!)

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing you may be wondering if they can be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window pane becomes cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and protection against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home, based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack is not too deep, you might be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary fix however, and may only prevent the crack from growing. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair service is required to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to eliminate You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is small enough that you can keep it in place and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

To install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that the new pane is a good fit. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers at a hardware store to install on the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Once your new pane is in place then spread a thick layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical issue. This happens when the window sealant is deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which will firmly compress when the sash is closed. Any water that hits the area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window could need to be replaced.

Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. The builders who constructed the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a cause of leaks. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. Although this isn't a particularly serious issue with leaky windows it can affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional can perform an exhaustive assessment and let you know the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed doors and windows, but it can be easily fixed. It is caused by the lack of air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. The droplets will disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould in the long term, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as possible.

A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Professional firms will take off the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure that a good seal will be reapplied.

Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the upvc window repair seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes could assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can break or crack and in this situation, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is skilled in doing this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the best quality possible. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you could not receive if you tried to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and occasionally problems can occur. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.

If you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family at risk, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.

It's usually more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to work with offers the guarantee of their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside 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. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, therefore cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.

It may be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the frame type and condition of the window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't shattered. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.