It's The Repairs To Double Glazed Windows Case Study You'll Never Forget

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing, you may be wondering if they can be repaired.

You may be able to claim your double glazing repaired under warranty depending on the problem and when you bought it.

Broken Panes

If a window's glass is damaged or cracked it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and protection against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.

If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is temporary fix, and could be able to stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass on 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, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. After removing the glass, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane is a good fit. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush with the glass.

Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is even and level.

Water Leaks

Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This happens when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window repairs could damage the drywall or plaster and cause damp walls.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality has a gasket that compresses firmly 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 dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which is a support for the brick that is above the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water entering the building.

Another possible leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to the seal being worn out. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows it can affect efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional can complete a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They will be able to tell you whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work required.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is usually a simple fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows. It is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass's surface. The droplets will disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indicator of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is most likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then repair is highly recommended since 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 get the window repaired as soon as you can.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective method of tackling this problem, as they can suggest the best course of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is applied.

Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air to get into double-paned windows, which makes them fog. Simple fixes may help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. However, this spacer bar can break or crack, and in this case it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, however it is usually better to hire an expert who is trained to do 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 correctly and with the highest possible quality. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done which you wouldn't get with DIY work.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and problems can arise occasionally. These issues can be dangerous in certain instances when they aren't addressed quickly.

If you find any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows, and can leave them looking unsightly.

It is often far cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the most effective and ensure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold it will be placed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, the space between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from seeping into the gap that acts as an insulation. Certain IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged an alternative pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive 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 might be possible to repair the damaged pane. This is typically the case if it's only developed a few small cracks, but it isn't shattered. If the double-glazed windows are completely shattered then it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.