Samuel Janney asked 2 months ago
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you’ve recently had double glazing installed in your home and they’re beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they can be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and when you bought them from the store, you might be able to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window’s pane is cracked or broken it allows air move more easily, which reduces the windows’ efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year this could cause hot or cold air to flow into or out of your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
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 growing. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass that is present 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 You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is not too large it is possible to use a razor to cut the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After removing the glass then place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement pane you’ll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 – 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some glaziers’ points at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Once your new pane is set then spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame then fill them in using your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window could damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into this area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel above the window can be the source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. While this isn’t the most serious issue associated with leaky windows however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional can perform an extensive evaluation and let you know the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They’ll also be able to advise whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to provide you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is generally an easy solution. This is due to a lack air flow around the windows. It is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass’s surface. These droplets will quickly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it’s worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this noise. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold in time, so it’s recommended to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the best way of dealing with this issue, since they will be able to recommend the correct procedure to take. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is put back on.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the Window Doctor seal is damaged, causing them to get clogged. If this occurs it is possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases, the best solution 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 a source of desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack, Window Doctor and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it’s normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean that you get some type of guarantee for the work done that you can’t get from DIY work.
Shattering
Double glazing is an innovative product that lets homeowners reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. It’s not impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. These faults can be dangerous in some instances when they aren’t addressed promptly.
Therefore, if you’ve noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk it is essential to have them fixed in the earliest time possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually more cost-effective than replacing them. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and window doctor requesting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose has an assurance on their work.
When 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 comprised of two glass panes, with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like Argon that helps to prevent heat from getting out of your home, thus conserving energy.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.
It is possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the kind of frame and condition of your window. This is typically the case if it’s only developed a few small cracks, but has not damaged. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it’s best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.