20 Myths About Repairs To Double Glazed Windows: Busted

Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to show signs that they are in danger, you might wonder if they can still be fixed.

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

Broken Panes

If a window's pane is damaged or cracked it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.

If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it could only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to replace 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 take it off. If the crack is small enough to be able to hold it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free it is necessary to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a replacement glass, you'll need to prepare the frame and buy replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane fits properly, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Get your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wood frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to install on the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush against the glass.

Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after your new pane has been installed. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound over your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

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

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area must be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window could need to be replaced.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel, which supports the brick above the window. The builders who constructed the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they could have just covered 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 could have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from getting into the building.

Another possible leak could be the gap that exists between the glass panes in double-glazed units. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to an old seal. While this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect energy efficiency and must be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation, replacement double glazing may be appropriate. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They can also tell you whether it is best to repair or replace the window. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is a concern with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is usually a simple fix. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the issue persists it is worth investigating further.

Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is likely because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you hear this noise. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold over time, so it's best to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.

Having a professional inspect your window doctor for condensation is the best method of tackling this issue, since they can suggest the best procedure to take. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a good seal is reapplied.

Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the Window doctor near me seal fails it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. Simple fixes can help, but often the most effective solution is to replace the windows.

A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes in most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may crack or break and in this situation, it is often necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to do some repairs yourself if have the right tools, but it is normally better to hire an expert who is trained to do this for you. This will not only save you a great amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the best quality possible. A reliable tradesperson can also mean you receive some type of guarantee for the work carried out that you can't get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time problems can occur. In certain instances, these faults may even be dangerous if they are not addressed quickly enough.

If you notice any problems with your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. So, if you have noticed any indications of issues with your double glazing, consider searching for local companies that specialize in repairs for double-glazed windows and getting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose offers a guarantee with their work.

Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes with an area between them, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thereby conserving energy.

If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then a replacement can be bought from a window manufacturer, and then 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 is possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the type of frame and the condition of your window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but has not broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.