If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they can be repaired.
You might be able to get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home, based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you might be able to utilize an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only a temporary solution however, and it may only prevent the crack from growing. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any broken glass in your double glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is extensive and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is small enough, you can hold it in place and use a razor to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed and laid flat, you can place it on several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some points for glaziers at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.
After your new pane is set, spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound with a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. If you have any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound on your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common problem that occurs when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.
A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by the area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping might need to be replaced.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick over the window. The builders who built the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have clad it in concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater can enter and accumulate, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water entering the building.
Another source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can perform an extensive evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is best to fix or replace the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally an easy fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is most 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 prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired as soon as you can.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, as they can recommend the correct course of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the space between the two. This will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Double condensation on glazing is caused by defective windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that could be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to carry out some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, however it is generally better to employ an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a great amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee on the work done, which you would not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a fantastic technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage, and issues can occur occasionally. These flaws could be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected promptly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults such as misting and water leaks can damage the effectiveness of the windows, and can make them look unattractive.
It's often cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. So, if you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double glazed windows and asking for quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes, with a space in between, and a rubber gasket that stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then put on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to simply repair the damaged part. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the case. If the double-glazed window is totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.
