7 Simple Tricks To Rolling With Your Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
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 in danger, you might wonder if they can still be fixed.
You may be able to claim your double glazing covered under warranty depending on the problem and the date when you bought it.
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 barrier and against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home, based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will rise.
If the crack in your double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself is tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too large to grasp, try pressing strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is not too large you can make use of a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. After the pane has been cut it is necessary to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane is a good fit. Then have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install along the edge of your new pane. Position the points so they can allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
Spread a thick layer of it with a putty blade once your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putting such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Make sure window repairs smooth the compound to ensure that it is level and even around the pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical problem. This occurs when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can damage the plaster and drywall surrounding the window, and can cause damp or moldy walls that require to be restored as quickly as possible.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. Any water that hits this area should be drained away through the weep holes at the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel on top of the window can be an area of leaks. The builders who built the house might not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel drain properly, or they could have covered it in concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater could get in and then accumulate, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water entering the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be the cause of leaks. A worn seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect efficiency and must be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be appropriate. A professional can complete a full evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest a solution. They'll also be able to advise whether it is appropriate to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is needed.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily corrected. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows and occurs in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water appearing on the glass's surface. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended as it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold over time, so it is best to get the window repaired as soon as you can.
A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure a good seal is reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal fails, causing them to fog up. Simple fixes may help, but the best solution is to replace the windows.
A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that may occur, therefore stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can make some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A trusted tradesman will also offer a guarantee on the work done that you wouldn't get if you attempted to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. These issues can be dangerous in some cases if they're not addressed quickly.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family members in danger it is essential to have them fixed as soon as possible. Problems like misting and water leaks can reduce the performance of windows, and can cause them to look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually more cost-effective than replacing them. So, if you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider looking for local companies that specialize in repairs for double-glazed windows and getting estimates. Be aware that the lowest price isn't always the most effective and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes, a gap between them, and an insulating rubber seal that prevents water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Certain IGUs contain argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, then it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer, and then fitted to the frame. This is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged window. This is usually the case when it has only developed a few small cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.