12 Companies Leading The Way In Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?
If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failing, you may be wondering if they could be repaired.
Depending on what the problem is and when you bought them from, you may be eligible to receive your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, and may be able to stop the crack from getting more severe. To ensure the most effective results, a professional window repair service is required to fix any damaged glass that is present on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of You can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. 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 when cutting the glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.
To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that your new pane will fit properly. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware store or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wood frames, purchase glaziers' points at a hardware store to install along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.
Once your new pane is set and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your preferred 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 there are gaps between your new pane and the frame you can fill them in with your chosen compound. Be sure to smooth the compound to ensure it is even and level around the pane.
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 can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window and also result in damp or spongy walls that require to be restored as quickly as possible.
A double-glazed window of good quality has a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash closes. The water that enters the area should be drained out through the weepholes 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 might need to be replaced.
The lintel on top of the window could also be the source of leaks. The people who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have bent fascia boards over the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water from entering the building.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be positioned between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to an old seal. Although this is not the most serious issue with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as quickly as possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be a good idea. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it is appropriate to repair the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a quote for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue in older double-glazed windows and doors, but this can usually be easily corrected. It is caused by the lack of air flow around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth investigating further.
Another indicator of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This could be because of a damaged seal between the two panes of glass. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can cause mold in the long run It is therefore recommended to have the window repaired when you can.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the best method of tackling this problem, as they will be able to suggest the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the gap between the two. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.
Failing windowpane seals are the main cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal is damaged and causes them to get clogged. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes can assist, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
The majority of double-glazed windows have an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two panes of glass. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that might be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this bar can break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who has been trained to do this. You will save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reputable tradesperson will also provide you with a guarantee for the work completed, which you would not get if you were to repair it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It is not indestructible and there are issues that can arise from time to time. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed quickly.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could put your family members at risk it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the performance of windows and cause them to look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is typically more cost-effective than replacing them. If you see any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has the guarantee of their work.
When a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). It is made up of two glass panes, a gap between them, and a rubber seal that keeps water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs also contain a gas like Argon that helps to prevent heat from leaving your home, therefore saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, a replacement can be bought from a window maker and then installed on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for many households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed window has completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.