Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you have recently had double glazing installed in your home and they’re beginning to show signs of failing, you may be wondering if they could be repaired.

Depending on what the issue is and the date you bought them from You may be in a position to get your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window’s pane is cracked or broken it allows air to move more easily, which reduces the effectiveness of windows as insulation and barrier against the elements. This can cause hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the time of year. Heating and cooling costs 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 only a temporary solution however, and will only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass that has been smashed on double-glazed windows.

It can be dangerous and difficult to repair windows on your own. 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 you can use a razor to remove the glass from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask while cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall.

To install a replacement glass, you’ll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. Take measurements of the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, purchase glaziers’ points at an hardware store to place around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a manner that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

After your new pane is in place and you are happy with it, apply a thick layer of your chosen glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product like Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the frame and pane using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a frequent issue that happens when the window sealant has degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around the window can damage the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.

A good double glazed window will come with a gasket which is able to compress when the sash is closed. Any water that hits this area must be drained away via the weep holes at the bottom 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 above the window can also be an area of leaks. The builders who constructed the house might not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete, which left a gap in which rainwater could enter and pool around and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers could have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building.

Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in the double-glazed unit. A worn seal could have caused gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. While this isn’t the most serious problem with windows that leak, it will have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as quickly as possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be necessary. A professional will conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They’ll also be able advise whether it is advisable to fix the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is usually an easy fix. This is due to an absence of air circulation around the windows and occurs in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass’s surface. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further.

You can also hear water drip. This could be due to a broken seal between the two glass panes. Repairs are highly recommended if you notice this sound. This will prevent cold drafts entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mould over time, so it’s recommended to get the window repaired as soon as you can.

A professional will inspect your window and recommend the best solution. Professional firms will take off the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal is reapplied.

The windowpane seals failing are the primary cause of condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and causes them to become cloudy. If this happens it’s possible that simple fixes could help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.

A spacer bar is usually located between the two glass panes that are found in the majority of double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and blocks it from getting into the glass. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking, and it’s often necessary to replace the entire window.

You can repair some of the issues yourself using the correct tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge deal of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and of the best quality possible. Employing a reputable tradesperson could also mean you receive some kind of assurance for the work done that you would not get from a DIY job.

Shattering

Double glazing is an innovative product that allows homeowners to reduce their heating bills while keeping their homes warm. But it’s not impervious to damage and from time to time issues may arise. These flaws could be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected quickly.

If you spot any issues in your double-glazing that could put your family in danger, it’s important to address them as quickly as possible. Problems such as misting or leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of windows and make them look ugly.

It’s often cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing, it’s worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Be aware that the lowest price isn’t always the best option and ensure that the company offers a warranty with their work.

A double-glazed window will be sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of the two glass panes, the space between them and a rubber seal that keeps water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas, such as argon, which helps keep heat from getting out of your home, therefore saving you on energy costs.

If one of the IGUs has been damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a lot of households.

It could be possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the type of frame and the condition of your window. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but it isn’t broken. If the double-glazed window is completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.