Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You may be able get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is damaged or cracked it allows air flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and protection against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home, based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.
If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to eliminate You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large it is possible to use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane is a good fit. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put around the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using a putty knife after your new pane is installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level all around your pane.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is feasible.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel on top of the window can also be the source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater can enter and pool around causing dampness or rot on the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water entering the building.
Another possible source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They'll also be able advise whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily fixed. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows. It is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
Another indication of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is most likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this sound. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould in time, so it's best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes will help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from getting into the glass. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do 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. This will not just save you a good deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty on the work done that you wouldn't get if you attempted to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their upvc door repairs homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and problems can arise periodically. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and leave them looking unsightly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, it's worth looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double glazed windows and requesting quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best choice and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a gap between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cheaper for most households.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but hasn't broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.