12 Companies Leading The Way In Repairs To Double Glazed Windows

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they can still be repaired.

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

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and also against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack in your double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and it may only prevent the crack from getting worse. A professional window door repair (this article) company can repair any damaged glass on double-glazed windows.

It is risky and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp then try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough, you can hold it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. Once the glass is removed, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any fragments that might fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane is properly fitted, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy glaziers points from a hardware shop to install along the edge of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows for expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty flat against the glass.

After the new pane is set, spread a thick layer of your preferred glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, window repair fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound over your new pane to make sure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls.

A high-quality double-glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is shut. Any water that gets into this area should be drained away through the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes get blocked by a build-up dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window may require replacement.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick above the window. Installers who built 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 can enter and get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from entering the building through these gaps.

Another leak source is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. Although this is not the most serious issue associated with leaky windows however, it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be required. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They will also help you decide if it is better to repair or replace the window. They will be able to also give you a quote for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it's generally a simple fix. This is due to a lack air flow around windows and is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists it's worth looking further.

It is also possible to hear the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold over time, so it is best to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.

A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most effective approach to tackling this issue, as they can suggest the best course of action. The majority of professional companies will take off 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.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation issues with double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal fails and they begin to fog up. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes will assist, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature spacer bars that sit between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can sometimes break or crack and in this instance, it is usually necessary to replace the entire window.

You can do some repairs yourself using the correct tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out which you wouldn't get with a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and, from time to time, issues may arise. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly.

If you notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it's crucial to address them as quickly as possible. Issues like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double-glazed windows and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes, with an opening in between and a rubber gasket that stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thus cutting down on energy costs.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then put on the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a lot of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged pane depending on the type of frame and the condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few tiny chips, but not been 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 as well as the window sash.