Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Why You Should Concentrate On Improving Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Blog Article
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 failure, you may be wondering if they are able to be fixed.
You might be able to get your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and the date when you bought it.
Broken Panes
If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the windows' effectiveness as an insulation and a barrier 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 in your double glazing is not too deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix, though, and it may only prevent the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can fix any damaged glass on your double-glazed windows.
It can be dangerous and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large, you can keep it in place and use a razor blade to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. Once the pane is 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 you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that your new glass is a good fit take a measurement of the opening of the frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches on both sides. Have your replacement glass cut at a local hardware store or glass shop to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers points from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that will allow expansion and contraction while still keeping the putty level against the glass.
Spread a thick layer using the blade of a putty maker after the new pane has been installed. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. If you notice any gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks in a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster around the window, and can cause damp or moldy walls that need to be restored as quickly as is possible.
A good double glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is shut. Water that falls on the area should be drained through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can become blocked due to dirt and other debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.
The lintel that is above the window can also be the source of leaks. The builders who constructed the home may not have been aware that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely clad it with concrete leaving an opening where rainwater could enter and pool around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The installers should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed correctly and this will stop water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of the seal being worn out. Although this is not the most serious issue associated with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed as soon as is possible. In this case double glazing replacement could be required. A professional will conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They'll also be able advise whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They can also provide an estimate for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed windows and doors, but it is usually easily corrected. This is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window, and typically occurs in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.
Another indication of condensation is if you can hear water dripping. This is likely because of a broken seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound then repair is highly recommended as it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mould over time, so it's best to get the window repaired as quickly as possible.
A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best solution. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between the two, this will dry out any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is applied.
The windowpane seals failing are the main cause of condensation issues with double glazing. If the window seal is damaged, it allows cool air into double-paned glass windows, making them fog. If this happens it is possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases the best solution is to replace the window.
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 absorbs any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. Unfortunately, this bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is often required to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's generally better to hire a professional who is skilled in doing this. This will not just save you a good read more amount of time, but it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee on the work done, which you would not get if you were to do it yourself.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and, from time to time, problems can occur. In some cases the faults could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough.
If you've noticed any issues with your double glazing that could put your family at risk it is essential to fix them in the earliest time possible. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and also cause them to look ugly.
It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you notice any signs of problems with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research 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 your chosen company offers a warranty with their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes with an area between them, and a rubber gasket which keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window manufacturer and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a large number of households.
It is possible to repair the damaged glass dependent on the type of frame and the condition of your window. This is typically the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but is not shattered. If your double glazed window has completely broken and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.