Don't Forget Repairs To Double Glazed Windows: 10 Reasons Why You Don't Really Need It
Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired? If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they're beginning to show signs of failing, you might be wondering if they could be repaired. Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them, you may be in a position to get your double glazing back under warranty. Broken Panes If a window's glass is cracked or broken air can enter more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation barrier and against the elements. Depending on the time of year, this can cause cold or hot air to flow into or out of your home, which can increase heating and cooling costs. If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to just apply a strong-hold tape. This is a temporary fix however, and may only prevent the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair service can repair any broken glass that has been smashed on your double-glazed windows. The process of replacing a damaged window pane yourself is challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is large and difficult to get rid of Try applying strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it in place and use a razor to remove it from the frame. Wear gloves and a mask when cutting the glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to lay it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall. To install a new glass pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and set up the frame. 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. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut according to this measurement at a local glass shop or at a hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase glaziers' points at hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Place the points in a way they can allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass. After the new pane is set, spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound with a putty knife. Make use of a linseed oil-based putty such as Sarco or a less expensive product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. double glazing repair Hanwell around the new pane to ensure it is level and even. Water Leaks Water leaks around windows' frame or sash are a typical issue. This happens when the window sealant has deteriorated and must be replaced. Water leaks can cause damage to the drywall and plaster surrounding the window. They can also cause damp or moldy walls that need to be repaired as soon as is feasible. A high-quality double-glazed window has a gasket that is able to compress when the sash is shut. The water that is absorbed by the area should be drained out through the weep holes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep holes become blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping may need replacing. The lintel above the window can also be an area of leaks. The people who built the house may not have understood that the lintel needs to be let to drain properly or they could have merely covered it with concrete, leaving a gap where rainwater can get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders may have an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water getting into the building. A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that the argon or krypton gas that should be between the glass panes to provide insulation has escaped out from the windows due to an old seal. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on efficiency and must be addressed as soon as possible. In this case double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can conduct an exhaustive evaluation, letting you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They'll also be able to advise whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work needed. Condensation Condensation is a frequent issue in older double-glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily solved. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window. It usually occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most obvious sign of condensation is water droplets forming on the glass surface. These droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the issue persists it is worth investigating further. There is also the sound of water drip. This is likely due to a damaged seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, it is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem can cause mould in the long term It is therefore recommended to get the window fixed as soon as you can. Having a professional inspect your window for condensation is the most efficient method of tackling this issue, as they will be able to determine the best procedure to take. Professional firms will take off 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 reapplied. Failing windowpane seals are the main reason for condensation issues in double glazing. When the window seal fails, it allows cool air into double-paned windows, which makes them to fog. If this happens it's possible that simple fixes could assist, but in many cases, the best solution is to replace the window. Most double glazed windows have an “espacer” bar that is placed between the two glass panes. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. This bar is susceptible to breaking or cracking, and in most cases, you'll need to replace your entire window. You can do some repairs yourself using the appropriate tools. However, it is generally better to hire a professional who is trained to do this. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double glazing is repaired correctly and with the highest possible quality. Using a trusted tradesman can be a good idea as it will give you some kind of assurance for the work done that you would not get from a DIY job. Shattering Double glazing is a fantastic technology that lets homeowners save money on heating bills while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. However, it isn't indestructible and from time to time problems can occur. In some instances the faults could be dangerous if not addressed quickly enough. 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 you can. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the performance of windows and also leave them looking unsightly. It's often cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than to replace them entirely. So, if you've noticed any signs of trouble with your double glazing, consider researching local companies that specialise in repairs for double-glazed windows and getting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best option. Make sure that the company you choose to work with 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 two glass panes, a space between them and the rubber seal that stops water from seeping into the insulating gap. Some IGUs contain argon, a gas that keeps heat from leaving the house and helps save money on energy costs. If one of the IGU panes is damaged, it is possible to purchase a replacement from a window manufacturer and then installed on the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is cost-effective for a lot of households. Depending on the type of window you have and the condition of the frame, it might be possible to fix the damaged window. This is typically the case when it has only developed a few tiny cracks, but has 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.