Why You Should Focus On Enhancing Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
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 may be wondering if they could be repaired.
Depending on the issue is and how long ago you purchased them the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This can reduce the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This could cause cold or hot air to enter your home, based on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you might be able to use an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is only temporary fix and may just stop the crack from becoming more severe. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
Removing a damaged window pane yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is too big to grasp then 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 use a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.
To install a new pane you will need to purchase replacement glass and prepare the frame. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit, measure the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy some glaziers' points at an hardware store to place along the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow expansion and contraction while keeping the putty flush against the glass.
After the new pane has been placed and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your preferred glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco, or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure that it is even and level all around your pane.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around a window's frame or sash are a common problem. This occurs when the window sealant is deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around the window could damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of high quality will come with a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash closes. The water that is absorbed by this area must be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping may need replacing.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick above the window. The installers who built the house may not have realized that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly, or they may have simply clad it with concrete leaving a gap where rainwater can enter and pool around the window causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water from entering the building.
Another leak source is the gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed unit. It's possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has leaked out of the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue it can affect efficiency and must be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this situation double glazed window repairs glazing replacement might be required. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They can also tell you if it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it can be easily corrected. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are a clear sign of condensation. These droplets will quickly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists it is worth investigating further.
Another indication of condensation is when you hear water drips. This is usually caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can also lead to mould over time, so it is best to have the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional can examine your window and suggest the best option. Professional firms will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal will be reapplied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. Simple fixes may help, but the most effective solution is to replace the windows.
The majority of double-glazed windows feature an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is a source of desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may break or crack, and in this case it is typically required to replace the entire window.
It is possible to do repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, but it's normally better to hire an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not just save you a good deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the highest quality. A reputable tradesperson will also offer a guarantee on the work done, which you would not receive if you tried to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is an ingenuous product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. But it's not impervious to damage and, from time to time, issues can arise. In certain instances, these faults may even be dangerous if not dealt with promptly enough.
Therefore, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk, then it's important to fix them as soon as possible. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.
It's usually cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you've noticed any signs of problems with your double glazing, it's worth looking for local companies that specialize in the repairs of double glazed windows and asking for estimates. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and make sure that the company offers a warranty with their work.
Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which prevents water from leaking into the gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas like argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thereby saving you on energy costs.
If one of the IGU panes is damaged, installed it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window maker and then put on the frame. This is normally far cheaper than replacing the entire window and is cheaper for most households.
Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged pane. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but not been damaged, this is typically the case. If the double-glazed window is completely broken, it is recommended to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.