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 could be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken it allows air move more easily, which reduces the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to escape or enter your home, which can increase the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution, though, and it may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is extensive and difficult to get rid of Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large, you can use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some glaziers' points at a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using a putty knife after your new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound so that 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 needs to be replaced. window repair Ealing can damage the drywall and plaster surrounding the window. They can also result in damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as possible.
A high-quality double-glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained out through the weepholes of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window can also be the source of leaks. The installers who built the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving a gap where rainwater can be able to enter and collect around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. It is possible that gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this is not the most serious problem with leaky windows, it will have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this case replacing double glazing could be a good idea. A professional can complete an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They will also help you decide whether it is best to repair or replace the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily corrected. It is caused by 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 sign of condensation. The droplets will disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
Another indicator of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can also lead to mold in the long run, so it is best to fix the window as soon as possible.
Having a professional examine your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, as they will be able to determine the best procedure to take. 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 a quality seal is put back on.
The windowpane seals failing are the main reason for condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal is damaged, causing them to get clogged. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that may occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes and causing condensation. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not just save you a good deal 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 be a good idea as it will give you some type of guarantee for the work that is completed that you can't get from DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. In certain instances these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can reduce the effectiveness of the windows and make them look unattractive.
It is often far cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. So, if you've noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, you should consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double glazed windows 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, it will be contained in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from leaving your home, thus conserving energy.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for many households.
Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged pane. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the situation. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.