Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and 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 under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will rise.
If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary solution however, and could only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the best results, a professional window repair service is required to fix any broken glass in your double glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If the crack isn't too large that you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a replacement glass, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can 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.
Once your new pane has been placed, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has worn out and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as is possible.
A good quality double glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into this area should be drained away via the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping might need to be replaced.
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 realized that this lintel must be let to drain properly or they may have simply put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will prevent water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a cause of leaks. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be between the glass to create insulation has escaped from the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem it can affect energy efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be the best option. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and recommend solutions. They can also tell you if it is better to repair or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is usually an easy fix. It is caused by an absence of air circulation 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 by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.
Another indicator of condensation is when you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most efficient approach to tackling this issue, since they will be able to determine the best course of action. Professional firms will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal is reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and they begin to get clogged. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. This spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that could occur, thus stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. However, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack and in this situation, it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can do some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee on the work done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise occasionally. In some instances these flaws could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also make them look unattractive.
It is often far cheaper to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be Biggin Hill double glazing that the company you choose offers the guarantee of their work.
If 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 made up of two glass panes that have a space in between, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, an alternative pane can be 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 lot of households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to fix the damaged part. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but hasn't shattered, this is usually the situation. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.