10 Things Your Competition Can Learn About Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
10 Things Your Competition Can Learn About Repairs To Double Glazed Windows
Blog Article
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 might be wondering if they could be fixed.
You may be able get your double glazing covered under warranty based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window's pane is broken or cracked air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. Based on the season this could cause warm or cold air to flow into or out of 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 only a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a professional window repair service should be contacted to fix any broken glass in double-glazed windows.
It could be risky and difficult to replace windows on your own. If the crack is substantial and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack is small enough to be able to keep it in place and use a razor to cut it away from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. When the pane is cut free it is necessary to place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to stop any pieces that might fall.
To install a replacement pane, you'll need to make the frame ready and purchase replacement glass. 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 the replacement glass cut to this measurement at your local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wood frames, buy some points for glaziers from hardware stores to put along the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flat against the glass.
After the new pane is in place, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product like 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 it is level and even 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 deteriorated and needs to be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster around the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.
A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which compresses firmly when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into this area must be drained away through the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may be blocked by dirt and other debris. Or, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another source of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could get in and then get trapped, creating dampness or rot on the wood. The builders should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly and this will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap that exists between the glass panes in a double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to create insulation to leak out. Although this isn't the most serious issue with leaky windows but it could affect energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as soon as is possible. In this case replacement double glazing might be a good idea. A professional can conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and suggest a solution. They can also advise if it is better to fix or replace the window. They will also be able to give you a quote for any necessary work.
Condensation
Condensation is quite a common problem in older double glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily fixed. It is caused by the lack of air circulation around the window. It usually is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. The most obvious evidence of condensation is the appearance of droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues it's worth looking further.
You can also hear the sound of water drip. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound then a repair is highly recommended since it will prevent cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold over time, so it's best to fix the window as quickly as possible.
A professional inspection of your window for condensation is the most effective approach to tackling this issue, as they will be able to suggest the best method of action. Professional companies will remove the glass affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and ensure that a quality seal is applied.
Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the window seal breaks, causing them to become cloudy. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes will help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture that might occur, therefore keeping it out of the glass panes, causing condensation. Unfortunately, this spacer bar can sometimes break or crack, and in this case it is often necessary to replace the entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who has been trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired correctly. Using a trusted tradesman can also mean that you get some type of guarantee for the work that is completed that you can't get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is a wonderful invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills, whilst keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and occasionally issues can arise. These flaws could be dangerous in some instances when they aren't addressed promptly.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family at risk It is crucial to fix them as soon as possible. Problems like misting and leaks of water can affect the efficiency of windows and cause them to look ugly.
Repairing double-glazed windows is usually cheaper than replacing them. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth researching local companies who specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for estimates. The lowest price may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.
When a double glazed window is sold in the market, it will be housed in an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). This is what consists of the two glass panes, the space between them, and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the gap that acts as an insulation. Some IGUs contain Argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker 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.
Depending on the type of window you own and the condition of the frame, get more info it may be possible to repair the damaged part. This is typically the case if it has only developed a few small cracks, but is not damaged. If the double-glazed window is completely shattered then it is recommended to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.