Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?

If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and are beginning to show signs of failure, you might be wondering if they can be fixed.

Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you bought them from the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing replaced under warranty.

Broken Panes

If a window repairs near me pane becomes cracked or broken it allows air pass more easily, lowering the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Based on the season, this can cause hot or cold air to enter or escape your home, increasing heating and cooling costs.

If the crack isn't too deep, you might be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only a temporary solution, though, and it will only stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass on double-glazed windows.

It could be risky and challenging to replace windows on your own. If the crack is too large to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape in a crisscrossing fashion prior to trying to remove it. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it steady and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when cutting glass. Once the pane is free you must place it flat on several layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.

To install a replacement pane, you'll need to prepare the frame and purchase replacement glass. To ensure that the new pane fits properly take a measurement of the opening of the window frame and subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch on both sides. Then, you can have your replacement glass cut to this measurement at a local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to install around the edges of your new pane. Be sure to install the points in a way that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty in a flat position against the glass.

Once your new pane is in place then spread an even layer of your glazing compound with the help of a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product such as Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps that exist between the new pane and frame using the compound you choose. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is level and even.

Water Leaks

The appearance of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has become degraded and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can cause damage to the plaster or drywall and cause damp walls.

A double-glazed window of high quality has a gasket that expands with force when the sash is closed. Any water that comes into the area should be drained away through the weep holes in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes the weep hole can be blocked due to dirt and other debris. The weather stripping may need replacing.

Another source of water leaks is the lintel that supports the brick over the window. The installers who built the house may not have understood that this lintel should be allowed to drain properly, or they could have merely put it in concrete and window repair left an opening where rainwater could get in and build up around the window, creating dampness in the wall or rot in the wood. The builders should have placed the fascia boards in a slant above the window to ensure that water is directed properly. This will prevent water from getting into the structure through these gaps.

A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window can also be a source of leaks. It's possible that the gas argon or Krypton that is supposed to be in between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows because of a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious issue associated with windows that leak, it will have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue in the shortest time possible. In this situation, double glazing replacement may be necessary. A professional will conduct a full evaluation and identify the cause of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They can also advise whether it is better to fix or replace the window. They will be able to also give you a quote for any necessary work.

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