Why We Enjoy Repairs To Double Glazed Windows (And You Should Also!)
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
Depending on what the issue is and when you purchased them, you may be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. This can cause cold or hot air to enter your home depending on the season. The cost of cooling and heating 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 temporary fix, and may be able to stop the crack from getting worse. A reputable window repair service can repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is substantial and difficult to get rid of You can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large to be able to keep it in place and use a blade to remove it from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut it is necessary to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new glass pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Find 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 properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy glaziers points from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
After your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your glazing compound with a putty knife. You can make use of a linseed oil-based glue such as Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the appropriate compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to make sure it is even and level.
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 in the window can damage the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will come with a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash is closed. Any water that gets into this area must be drained out through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. However, sometimes the weep holes are blocked by a build-up dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel, which holds the bricks over the window. Installers who built the house might not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they may have clad it in concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could get in and then pool around 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 correctly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another potential leak source is the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out from the windows due to the seal being worn out. While this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this situation double glazing replacement could be required. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They'll also be able to advise whether it makes sense to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a quote for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is a very common issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, but this can usually be easily corrected. This is due to a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident sign of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists, it's worth looking further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold in time, so it's best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, since they will be able to recommend the correct course of action. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and causes them to get clogged. Simple fixes can help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.
Most double glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is stuffed with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could be present, thereby preventing it from reaching the glass panes and causing condensation. However, this spacer bar can sometimes crack or break and in this situation, it is typically necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work that is completed which you wouldn't get with DIY jobs.
Shattering
window repair near me glazing is an ingenuous product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It's not impervious to damage and problems can arise from time to time. These faults can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed promptly.
If you find any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family members in danger, it's crucial to fix them as soon as possible. Faults like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.
It is often far more cost effective to repair your double glazed windows than to replace them completely. So, if you have noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, it's worth searching for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and requesting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose offers the guarantee of their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby cutting down on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is far more cost-effective for most households.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged window. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but hasn't damaged, this is typically the situation. If your double-glazed window has completely shattered, then it's probably best to replace the entire glass unit as well as window sash.