Twenty Myths About Repairs To Double Glazed Windows Busted

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 might be wondering if they could be repaired.
You 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 cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and barrier against the elements. This can allow hot or cold air to enter your home depending on the season. Heating and cooling costs will increase.
If the crack is not too deep, you may be able to utilize a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only a temporary solution however, and it will only stop the crack from becoming worse. To ensure the best results, a reputable window repair company is required to fix any damaged glass that is present in double-glazed windows.
The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially 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 is small enough that you can hold it steady and use a razor blade to cut it off from the frame. Make sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any fragments that might fall.
To install a replacement glass, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that your new pane is a good fit. Cut your replacement glass at a local hardware or glass shop according to this measurement. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers at a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass.
Once your new pane has been placed, spread an even layer of your chosen glazing compound using a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane with your chosen compound. Smooth the compound on your new pane to make sure it is even and level.
Water Leaks
Water leaks around windows' frame or sash can be a frequent problem. This occurs when the sealant on windows has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the drywall or plaster and can cause damp walls.
A double-glazed window of good quality will have a gasket which is firmly compressed when the sash closes. The water that enters the area should be drained through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and other debris. Also, the weather stripping could need to be replaced.
Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which supports the brick over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have realized the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or have covered it with concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could enter and pool around and cause dampness or rot to the wood. The installers should have angled the fascia boards above the window to ensure that the water is directed properly. This will stop water from entering the building through these gaps.
Another potential source of leaks is the gap between the glass panes in double-glazed units. A damaged seal could have caused the argon gas or krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious leaky window problem it can affect efficiency and should be dealt with as soon as it is possible. In this situation replacing double glazing could be a good idea. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They can also tell you whether it is best to repair or replace the window. They will also be able to provide you a quote for any work that is required.
Condensation
Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, it is typically a simple fix. This is due to the lack of air flow around the windows. It is common in kitchens and bathrooms. The most evident indication of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass's surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the issue persists, it's worth looking into further.
Another sign of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended since it will stop cold drafts from entering your home. This kind of issue could cause mold in time, so it's best to have the window repaired as soon as you can.
Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most effective way of dealing with this issue, since they will be able to suggest the best method of action. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane and then pipe hot air into the space between them, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure a good seal is put back on.
Failing windowpane seals are the primary cause of condensation problems with double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. If this occurs, it is possible that simple fixes can help, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window.
A spacer bar is typically found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant which sucks up any moisture that could be present, thereby stopping it from getting to the glass panes and creating condensation. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking, and it's usually necessary to replace your entire window.
You can repair some of the issues yourself with the right tools. However, it's usually better to hire someone who is trained to do this. You'll save lots of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. Employing a reputable tradesperson could be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work carried out that you would not get from a DIY job.
Shattering
Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time issues can arise. These faults can be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly.
As such, if you have noticed any problems with your double glazing that could be putting your family members in danger, then it's important to have them fixed as soon as possible. Faults such as misting and leaks of water can affect the effectiveness of the windows, and can cause them to look ugly.
It's often cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you see any indications of trouble with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and asking for quotes. Be aware that the most affordable quote isn't always the best option and ensure that the company has a warranty on their work.
A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). This is what consists of two glass panes, a 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 that helps to prevent heat from escaping your home, thereby conserving energy.
If one of the IGUs has been damaged, it is possible to replace the pane purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the whole window and is cheaper for most households.
Based on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged window. If the glass has developed just a few tiny chips, but has not broken, that's usually the situation. If the double-glazed window is completely broken, it is best to replace both the glass unit as well as the window sash.