Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder whether they could be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and the date you purchased them the store, you might be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is cracked or broken it allows air flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary fix however, and could only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a professional window repair service should be called to repair any damaged glass in 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 to be able to hold it in place and use a razor to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned on the edges of your new pane. Position the points so that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

After the new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the appropriate compound. Smooth the compound over the new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common problem that occurs when window sealant has deteriorated and window repairs requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.

A good quality double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area must be drained through the weep holes in the frame. However, in some cases, the weep holes get blocked by a build-up of debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window could need to be replaced.

The lintel that is above the window can also be an area of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders may have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.

Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. 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 out. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem however, it could affect efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They will also help you decide if it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is typically an easy fix. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists it is worth investigating further.

Another sign of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to get the window fixed as soon as possible.

A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most efficient method of tackling this issue, since they can recommend the correct procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal will be reapplied.

Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to get clogged. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

Most double glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant that absorbs any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it is normally better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work that is completed that you would not get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is a fantastic innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It's not impervious to damage, and issues can occur periodically. In certain instances the faults could be dangerous if not dealt with quickly enough.

If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it's crucial to fix them as quickly as you can. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and cause them to look ugly.

It is often far cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has the guarantee of their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes with a space in between, and window repairs a rubber gasket that stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs contain the gas argon. It keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you money on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a large number of households.

Based on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply door repair the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not shattered. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.