What You Should Be Focusing On Improving Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
What You Should Be Focusing On Improving Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Blog Article
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken, air can pass through more easily. This reduces the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the time of year it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape 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 will only stop the crack from growing. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair company should be contacted to fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
It is risky and difficult to repair windows on your own. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is not too large it is possible to use a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane, you will need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a local hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
After your new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your preferred glazing compound using a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the compound you choose. Make sure you 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 can occur when window sealant has deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is possible.
A double-glazed window of high quality has a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into the area should be drained out through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
The lintel that is above the window could also be the source of leaks. The people who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter and pool around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue, it will impact on energy efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and let you know the cause of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They will also help you decide whether it is best to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common issue in older double-glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily corrected. It is caused by a lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it's worth looking further.
There is also the sound of the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if there is this noise. This will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold over time, so it's recommended to have the window repaired promptly.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this problem, as they can suggest the best method of action. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a good seal is applied.
Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to get clogged. Simple fixes can help, but often the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar can be located between the glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant that absorbs any moisture that could occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may 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 skilled in doing this. You'll save a lot of time and make sure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a guarantee on the work done that you wouldn't receive if you tried to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly.
If you notice any problems with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it's important to address them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows and cause them to look unsightly.
It's often cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than it would be to replace them completely. If you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider searching for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double-glazed windows and requesting quotes. Remember that the cheapest quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the insulating gap. Certain IGUs contain argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for many households.
It could be possible to repair the damaged window based 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 is not shattered. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered and here is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.