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Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently installed double glazing in your home, and it is beginning to begin to show signs of failing, you may wonder whether they could be repaired.

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

Broken Panes

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

If the crack in the double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and may just stop the crack from becoming worse. To get the most effective results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.

Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is substantial and difficult to remove You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't too large you can employ a slicing tool to cut the glass from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the glass has been removed then place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that may fall.

To install a new pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches in both directions to ensure that your new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers 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 in place against the glass.

Once your new pane is set, spread an even layer of your glazing compound with a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.

Water Leaks

The occurrence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can damage the drywall or plaster and lead to damp walls.

A double-glazed window that is of good quality has a gasket that is firmly compressed when the sash closes. Any water that gets into this area must be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes are blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.

Another potential culprit of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick over the window. Installers who built the house might not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or have clad it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

Another possible leak could be the gap between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of an old seal. Although this is not the most serious problem with windows that leak but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They will also be able advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a quote for any work that is required.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it can be easily corrected. This is due to a lack air flow around windows and is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water forming on the glass surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.

Another indication of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.

A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal will be reapplied.

Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the seal breaks, causing them to become cloudy. Simple fixes may help, but often the best solution is to replace the windows.

The majority of double-glazed windows feature a'spacer' bar that sits between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.

It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the right tools, but it's normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a warranty on the work they have done that you wouldn't get if you were to do it yourself.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. It is not indestructible and problems can arise occasionally. In some instances these flaws could be dangerous if they are not addressed promptly enough.

If you notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Faults like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and cause them to appear ugly.

Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you notice any signs of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work.

If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed within an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes that have an area between them, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from escaping your home, thereby saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and then fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.

Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged part. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but is not broken. If your double glazed window is completely cracked and is cracked, then it's best to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.