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 may be wondering if they could be repaired.
Hoddesdon double glazing repair may be able to claim your double glazing under warranty, based on the issue and the date you purchased it.
Broken Panes
If a window pane becomes damaged or cracked, it allows air to pass more easily, lowering the effectiveness of windows as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, causing an increase in the cost of cooling and heating.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to apply an adhesive tape with strong-hold. This is a temporary solution, though, and it could only stop the crack from becoming worse. A professional window repair company can fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.
Attempting to replace a broken window pane by yourself can be tricky and dangerous. If the crack is extensive and difficult to get rid of, you can try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack isn't 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 removing the glass, place it flat onto many layers of newspaper to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a new pane, you will need to purchase replacement glass and set up the frame. To ensure that the new pane is properly fitted you must measure 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 or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, purchase glaziers' points at a hardware store to install on 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 with the glass.
Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane has been installed. You can use a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a lesser product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the frame and the new pane using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around the new pane to ensure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
The presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that can occur when window sealant has become degraded and needs to be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls.
A high-quality double-glazed window will have a gasket that will firmly compress when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by the area should be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, however, the weep holes become blocked by a build-up of dirt and debris, or the weather stripping around the window might require replacement.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks over the window. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that the lintel needs to be allowed to drain properly or they could have just clad it with concrete leaving gaps that allow rainwater to be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders could have placed angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building.
A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a source of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or Krypton that should be positioned between the glass to provide insulation has escaped out of the windows due to a worn out seal. Although this isn't a particularly serious leaky window problem it can affect efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this case, replacement double glazing may be a good idea. A professional will conduct an exhaustive assessment and reveal the cause of the leak. They can also suggest solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to replace or repair the window. They will also be able to give you a price for any work required.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is typically a simple solution. It is caused by a lack air flow around the windows. It is common in areas like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is droplets of water appearing on the glass surface. These droplets will evaporate quickly when the window is heated up by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it's worth looking further.
It is also possible to hear water drip. This is usually due to a damaged 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 can also lead to mould in the long term, so it is best to get the window fixed as soon as you can.
A professional can inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Professional companies will remove the glass that is affected and blow hot air between the two panes. This will dry out any remaining moisture and guarantee that a high-quality seal is applied.
Windowpane seals that fail are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. Cool air gets into double-paned windows when the seal is damaged and causes them to become cloudy. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes could help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
Most double glazed windows have a'spacer' bar that sits between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant that absorbs any moisture and prevents it from reaching the glass. The spacer bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window.
It is possible to carry out repairs yourself if you have the right tools, however it is usually better to hire a trained professional to do this for you. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired properly. Using a trusted tradesman can be a good idea as it will give you some type of guarantee for the work done that you can't get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is a revolutionary product that allows homeowners to reduce heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time problems can occur. These faults can be dangerous in some instances if they are not corrected quickly.
If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Issues like misting and water leaks can reduce the efficiency of windows and make them look ugly.
It is often far cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them entirely. If you spot any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and requesting estimates. The cheapest quote may not be the best option. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work.
If a double-glazed window is sold, it will be contained inside an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is made up of two glass panes that have a space in between, and a rubber gasket that prevents water from leaking into the gap. Certain IGUs contain Argon, a gas that stops heat from escaping the home and saves money on energy costs.
If one of the IGUs is damaged, an alternative pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more affordable for a large number of households.
Depending on the kind of window you own and the condition of the frame, it may be possible to repair the damaged part. If the glass has developed only a few small chips, but has not shattered, this is usually the situation. If the double-glazed windows are totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.