If you have recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you might be wondering whether they could be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes cracked or broken it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and barrier against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only temporary fix, and may only stop the crack from getting more severe. A reputable window repair service can repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and challenging to replace a window pane on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to get rid of Try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing pattern. 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. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the glass is removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement glass it is necessary to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit correctly. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers points from a hardware store to place them on the outside of your new glass. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with the chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the window sealant is worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks in the window can damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on this area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes get blocked by a build-up dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window may need to be replaced.
The lintel above the window could also be a source of leaks. The installers 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 gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this case, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed windows and doors, but this can usually be easily fixed. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If window repairs near me persists it's worth looking further.
There is also the sound of water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it is best to get the window repaired promptly.
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 dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is put back on.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and they begin to get clogged. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could be present, thereby keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can sometimes crack or break and in this situation, it is typically required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not just save you a good amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. A reliable tradesman will offer a guarantee for the work completed that you could not get if you were to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues may arise. These faults can be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed promptly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as possible. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows, and can cause them to look ugly.
It's often cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best choice and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that prevents heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.
It may be possible to repair the damaged window depending on the frame type and condition of the window. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but has not damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as the window sash.
