"The Repairs To Double Glazed Windows Awards: The Most Sexiest, Worst, And Most Bizarre Things We've Seen

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they can be fixed.

You might be able to get your double glazing covered under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.

Broken Panes

When a window pane is broken or cracked, air can pass through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This could cause hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the time of year. The cost of cooling and heating will increase.

If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large it is possible to employ a slicing tool to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. Once the pane is free you must lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Measure 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. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wood frames, buy some points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

After the new pane is set then spread a thick layer of your glazing compound using a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks can cause damage to the plaster and drywall surrounding the window. They can also lead to damp or spongy walls that require to be repaired as soon as is feasible.

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

The lintel on top of the window can be the source of leaks. The builders who built the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and get trapped, and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The builders could have placed an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water getting into the building.

Another potential leak could be the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be positioned between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't a particularly severe leaky window issue however, it could affect energy efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be required. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and reveal the source of the leak. They can also recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is usually an easy fix. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows. It is common in kitchens and bathrooms. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will rapidly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.

Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue can also lead to mold in the long run, so it is best to fix the window as soon as possible.

Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective method of tackling this problem, as they can suggest the best course of action. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a quality seal is applied.

Double glazing condensation is caused by faulty windowpane seals. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them to fog. Simple fixes can help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar is typically located between the glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that may be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.

You can make some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not just save you a good amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the best quality possible. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a warranty for the work completed, which you would not get if you attempted to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is a wonderful invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise periodically. In certain instances these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.

If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to fix them as quickly as possible. Problems such as misting or water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows can be cheaper than replacing them. If you spot any indications of problems with your double glazing, it's worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed  window repairs  and requesting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the best choice and ensure that your chosen firm offers a guarantee on their work.

When a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, a gap between them and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon, which helps keep heat from escaping your home, therefore 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 much more affordable for the majority of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged pane based on the type of frame and the condition of the window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but not been damaged, this is typically the case. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.