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Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired? If you've recently had double glazing installed in your home and they are beginning to show signs of failing you might be wondering if they could be repaired. Depending on what the problem is and how long ago you purchased them the store, you might be eligible to receive your double glazing back under warranty. Broken Panes When a window pane 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 season it can allow warm or cold air to escape or enter your home, increasing the cost of cooling and heating. If the crack in the double glazing isn't that deep, it might be possible to apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix, and could be able to stop the crack from getting worse. A reputable window repair service can repair any damaged glass on double-glazed windows. Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be difficult and risky. If the crack is too big to grasp and hold, try putting strips of masking tape across it in a crisscrossing pattern prior to trying to take it off. If the crack is small enough that you can hold it in place and use a blade to cut it away from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After removing the glass, place it flat onto several layers of newspapers to catch any pieces that might fall. To install a new pane, you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Measure the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 – 1/8 inch in both directions to make sure that the new pane will fit correctly. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy points for glaziers from a hardware shop to install on the outside of your new pane. Be sure to position the points in a way that will allow expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty level against the glass. Spread a thick layer with a putty knife after your new pane is installed. Make use of a linseed-oil-based glue like Sarco or a lesser-priced product such as Dap glazing compound. If there are gaps between your new pane and the frame, fill them in with the chosen compound. Smooth the compound around your new pane to ensure it is level and even. Water Leaks Water leaks around a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the window sealant is damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows could damage the plaster or drywall and can cause damp walls. A double-glazed window that is of good quality has a gasket that compresses firmly when the sash closes. Any water that comes into the area should be drained out through the weep holes located in the bottom of the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing. Another possible cause of water leaks is the lintel which holds the bricks over the window. The builders who constructed the house may not have been aware of the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they could have covered it with concrete, leaving a gap through which rainwater could get in and then accumulate, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders may have angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure water is directed correctly. This will stop water getting into the building. Another potential leak source is the gap between the glass panes of the double-glazed unit. A damaged seal could have caused the gas argon or krypton which is supposed to be between the glass panes to provide insulation to leak out. While this isn't the most serious problem with leaky windows however, it could have a negative impact on energy efficiency. It is important to address the issue as quickly as possible. In this instance replacing double glazing could be a good idea. A professional will conduct a full evaluation, let you know the source of the leak from and recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it makes sense to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also provide an estimate for any work required. Condensation Condensation is a frequent issue with older double-glazed doors and windows, however it is usually easily solved. This is due to a lack of air circulation around the window and often occurs in rooms like kitchens or bathrooms. The most evident evidence of condensation is the appearance of water droplets forming on the glass surface. These droplets will rapidly disappear when the glass is heated by sunlight. If the problem persists, it's worth looking into further. Another indication of condensation is if you hear water drips. This is most likely due to a broken seal between the two panes of glass. If you hear this sound, then repair is highly recommended as it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of problem may cause mold over time, so it is best to get the window repaired promptly. A professional can examine your window and recommend the best option. The majority of professional companies will take off the affected pane, and then pipe hot air into the gap between them, this will evaporate any remaining moisture and ensure that a high-quality seal is reapplied. Double condensation in the glazing is caused by windowpane seals. When the window seal fails it allows cool air to enter double-paned glass windows, causing them fog. If this happens, it is possible that simple fixes could aid, but in most cases the best solution is to replace the window. A spacer bar is usually found between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which absorbs any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. Unfortunately, this spacer bar may break or crack and in this instance, it is typically required to replace the entire window. It is possible to complete some repairs yourself if you have the appropriate tools, however it is generally better to employ an experienced professional to carry out this for you. This will not only save you a huge amount of time, it will also ensure that your double-glazing is repaired properly and of the highest possible quality. A trusted tradesman will also provide you with a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not get if you were to do it yourself. Shattering Double glazing is a revolutionary product that lets homeowners save on heating costs while keeping their homes warm. However, it's not indestructible and from time to time problems can occur. These faults can be dangerous in certain instances if they're not addressed quickly. If on the main page notice any problems in your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it's important to fix them as soon as you can. Problems like misting and water leaks can damage the efficiency of windows, and can make them look unattractive. Repairing double-glazed windows is typically cheaper than replacing them. 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 requesting quotes. The cheapest quote may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose has an assurance on their work. A double-glazed window will be sold in an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). It is made up of the two glass panes, a gap between them and the rubber seal that stops water from getting into the insulating gap. Some IGUs also contain a gas such as argon that helps to keep heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down 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 lot of households. It could be possible to repair the damaged glass based on the kind of frame and condition of your window. This is usually the case if it has just developed a few minor cracks, but has not shattered. If the double-glazed window has totally broken, it's best to replace both the glass unit and the window sash.