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 get your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the season it can allow cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is temporary fix, and will just stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to repair a window pane on your own. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to remove it. If Brentwood window repair is not too large you can use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After the glass has been removed, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might 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 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane is a good fit. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned along the edge of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
After the new pane is set then spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound on the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that can occur when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window. They can also result in damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.
A double-glazed window of good quality will have a gasket which is firmly compressed when the sash closes. Any water that hits the area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel that is a support for the brick that is over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers could have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows it can affect efficiency and should be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be required. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They will also help you decide whether it is best to repair or replace the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work needed.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it's typically an easy solution. This is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.
You can also hear 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 hear this sound. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may also lead to mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as soon as you can.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most effective method of tackling this issue, since they can suggest the best method of action. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal is applied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal fails and they begin to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that could be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.
It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if have the appropriate tools, but it's usually better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. This will not only save you a great amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. A reliable tradesperson can be a good idea as it will give you some type of guarantee for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with DIY work.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some instances if they're not addressed quickly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members at risk It is crucial to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and make them look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is typically cheaper than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of issues with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies that specialise in the repairs of double glazed windows and getting quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the company has a warranty on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as 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 which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Certain 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, a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer, and then fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is much more affordable for the majority of households.
It is possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the kind of frame and condition of your window. This is usually the case if it's just developed a few minor cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed windows are completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.