11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Create Using Your Repairs To Double Glazed Windows

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you might be wondering if they can still be fixed.

Depending on what the issue is and when you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is damaged or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Depending on the season this could cause cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass in your double glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough, you can keep it in place and use a blade to cut it off from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a replacement pane it is necessary to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit correctly. Then have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a local hardware store to place them on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty in place against the glass.

After your new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply an even layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is level and even all around your pane.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a typical issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also result in damp or moldy walls that require to be fixed as soon as is feasible.

A good quality double glazed window will come with a gasket which firmly compresses when the sash is closed. Water that falls on this area must be drained through the weepholes of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes get blocked by a build-up of debris and dirt or the weather stripping around the window might need to be replaced.

Another possible cause 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 been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater could enter and accumulate, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have bent the fascia boards over the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be the cause of leaks. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to an old seal. Although this is not the most serious issue associated with leaky windows, it will have an impact on energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this instance replacement double glazing might be the best option. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They can also tell you whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, this is typically an easy fix. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window, and typically happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious indication of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth investigating further.

Another indicator of condensation is when you hear water drips. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound it is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can also lead to mould over time Therefore, it is recommended to have the window repaired when you can.

A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Professional firms will take off the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any remaining moisture and guarantee that a good seal is applied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to become cloudy. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will aid, but in most cases, the best solution is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace the entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired correctly and of the highest possible quality. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you wouldn't receive if you tried to repair it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and occasionally issues may arise. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.

If you find any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's crucial to fix them as quickly as you can. Issues like misting and Window Repair water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and make them appear ugly.

It's often 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's worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best option and make sure that the firm offers a guarantee on their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as 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 also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, thus saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs is damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a large number of households.

It may be possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the kind of frame and condition of your window. If the glass has formed just a few tiny chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the case. If your double glazed window has completely shattered and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.