Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to show signs that they are failing, you may wonder if they can still be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on double glazing repairs St Neots , this can cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.
If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only a temporary solution, though, and it could only stop the crack from growing. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy some glaziers' points at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with the blade of a putty maker after your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting like Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of high quality has a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into the area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.
Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks above the window. The builders who built the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then accumulate, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to an old seal. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows, it will impact on efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation, replacement double glazing may be appropriate. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily fixed. This is due to a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth investigating further.
You can also hear water drip. This is most likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound it is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould in time, so it is best to get the window repaired as quickly 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 evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. Simple fixes can help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically located between the glass panes of most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, thus keeping it out of the glass panes and creating condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a great deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. A trusted tradesman will also offer a guarantee for the work completed that you wouldn't receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise occasionally. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases when they aren't addressed promptly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as you can. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the performance of windows and make them look unsightly.
It's often more cost effective to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you've noticed any indications of problems with your double glazing, you should consider searching for local companies that specialize in repairs for double-glazed windows and asking for estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Make sure that the company you choose has the guarantee of their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer, and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is more cost-effective for most households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the kind of frame and condition of your window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but not been broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.