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 can be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you bought them from, you may be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.

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 and protects against the elements. Based on the season it can allow warm or cold air to flow into or out of your home, causing an increase in heating and cooling costs.

If the crack in your double glazing is not very deep, it may be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any damaged glass that is present in your double glazed windows.

Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscross pattern before trying to remove it. If the crack is not too large it is possible to make use of a razor to cut the glass away from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.

In order to install a replacement pane it is necessary to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new pane is properly fitted take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some points for glaziers at hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a manner that allows for expansion and contraction while keeping the putty level against the glass.

Once your new pane has been placed, spread a thick layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Be sure to 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 happens when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around the window can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls.

A double-glazed window of good quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash is closed. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes be blocked by dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping might need to be replaced.

The lintel on top of the window can also be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood that this lintel should be let to drain properly or they may have simply covered it with concrete, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to get in and build up around the window repairs, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will prevent water entering the building.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a source of leaks. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem however, it could affect energy efficiency and should be addressed as soon as possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can complete a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also give you an estimate for any work that is needed.

Condensation

Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however this can usually be easily corrected. This is due to the lack of air flow around the window. It usually happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.

Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drippy. This is most likely caused by a leak in the 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 kind of issue can cause mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed when you can.

A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. Simple fixes can help, but the best solution to this problem is to replace the windows.