Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you might be wondering if they can still be repaired.
Depending on what the issue is and how long ago you bought them from You may be eligible to receive your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken air can flow through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it could only stop the crack from growing. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough, you can keep it in place and use a razor to cut it off 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 may fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware store to be positioned along the edge of your new pane. Place the points in a way that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty blade once your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser-priced 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. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical issue. This occurs when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area should be drained through the weepholes in the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window could need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick above the window. Installers who built the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have covered it with concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows because of a worn out seal. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They'll also be able to advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is generally a simple solution. This is due to a lack air flow around windows and is common in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.
Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This could be due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most efficient approach to tackling this problem, as they can suggest the best procedure to take. Professional firms will take off the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Double glazing condensation is caused by windowpane seals. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. Simple fixes may aid, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is usually located between the glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could be present, thereby keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. Braintree window repairs is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone 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 correctly and of the highest possible quality. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work done which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful innovation that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, problems can occur. In some instances these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.
As such, if you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk it is essential to have them fixed as soon as possible. Issues such as misting or leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows and also cause them to look ugly.
It's usually more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you see any indications of trouble in your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that your chosen company has a warranty on their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, a gap between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from leaking into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged pane. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't broken. If the double-glazed window has completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.