Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired? If you've recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to show signs that they are in danger, you might wonder if they can still be repaired. You may be able get your double glazing repaired under warranty, based on the issue and the date you purchased it. Broken Panes If a window's glass is cracked or broken, it allows air to flow more easily, reducing the windows' efficiency as insulation and a barrier against the elements. Depending on the season it can allow cold or hot air to enter or escape your home, increasing heating and cooling costs. If the crack isn't too deep, you may be able to use a strong-hold adhesive tape. This is only temporary fix, and could only stop the crack from getting more severe. A reputable window repair service can fix any broken glass on your double-glazed windows. Attempting to replace a broken window pane by yourself can be difficult and risky. 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, you can hold it steady and use a razor to remove it from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. When the pane is cut free, you will need to place it flat on several layers of newspaper to keep any pieces that fall. To install a new glass pane, you'll need to purchase replacement glass and then prepare the frame. To ensure that your new pane fits properly, measure 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 to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, you can purchase points for glaziers from a hardware store to be positioned on the outside of your new glass. The points should be placed in a manner that they allow for expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty flush with the glass. After your new pane is set, 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 such as Dap glazing compound. Fill in any gaps between the new pane and frame using the appropriate compound. Make sure you smooth the compound to ensure it is level and even around the pane. Water Leaks Water leaks in a window's frame or sash can be a frequent issue. This occurs when the window sealant has damaged and requires replacement. Water leaks around windows can damage the plaster or drywall and lead to damp walls. A double-glazed window that is of good quality will have a gasket which expands with force when the sash closes. Water that falls on this area must 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 could need to be replaced. The lintel above the window could also be the source of leaks. The installers who built the home may not have been aware that this lintel must be allowed to drain properly or they could have merely put it in concrete and left a gap where rainwater can be able to enter and collect around the window, causing dampness in the wall or wood rot. The builders could have placed angled fascia boards above the windows to ensure that water is directed properly. This will stop water entering the building. A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that gas argon or Krypton that should be positioned between the glass panes to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to the seal being worn out. Although this isn't the most severe leaky window issue, it will impact on efficiency and must be taken care of as soon as is possible. In this instance double glazing replacement might be required. A professional can perform an exhaustive assessment and identify the source of the leak. They will also recommend solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They will be able to also give you a price for any necessary work. Condensation Condensation may be a problem with older double-glazed windows and doors. However, this is generally a simple solution. This is due to an absence of air flow around the window, and typically is seen in rooms like bathrooms or kitchens. Droplets of water on the glass surface of the glass are a clear indication of condensation. The droplets will quickly evaporate when the window is heated by sunlight. However, if the problem persists, it is worth looking further. You can also hear water drip. This is most likely 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 issue can also lead to mould over time, so it is best to get the window repaired promptly. A professional will inspect your window and suggest the best solution. Professional firms will remove the affected glass and then blow hot air between the two panes. This will eliminate any moisture that remains and ensure that a quality seal is applied. Double condensation on glazing is caused by defective windowpane seals. Cool air can enter double-paned windows when the seal breaks and they begin 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 an "espacer" bar that is placed between the two glass panes. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and stops it from reaching the glass. This spacer bar is prone to breaking or cracking, and it's often necessary to replace your entire window. You can make some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it is usually better to hire someone who is skilled in doing this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double glazing is repaired properly. A reliable tradesman will provide you with a guarantee on the work done that you wouldn't get if you were to repair it yourself. Shattering Double glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. But it's not impervious to damage and from time to time issues may arise. These flaws could be dangerous in some cases if they are not corrected promptly. If you spot any issues with your double-glazing, which could put your family in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as you can. Issues such as misting or leaks of water can affect the performance of windows and make them look unattractive. It's usually cheaper to repair your double-glazed windows than to replace them completely. If you spot any indications of problems with your double glazing it is worth looking into local companies that specialize in double glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The lowest price may not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose to work with offers an assurance on their work. Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is comprised of two glass panes that have an opening in between and a rubber gasket which stops water from entering the gap. Certain IGUs also contain a gas, such as Argon that helps to prevent heat from getting out of your home, thus cutting down on energy costs. If one of the IGUs is damaged, a replacement pane can be purchased from a window maker and fitted to the frame. This is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window and is more cost-effective for a large number of households. It could be possible to repair the damaged glass depending on the type of frame and the condition of your window. This is usually the case if it's only developed a few tiny cracks, but it isn't shattered. If your double-glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and window sash.