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Can Double Glazed Windows Be Repaired?If you've recently installed double glazing in your house, and it is beginning to display signs of failing, you may wonder whether they could be repaired.Depending on what the problem is and when you purchased them the store, you might be in a position to get your double-glazed windows replaced under warranty.Broken PanesIf a window's pane is damaged or cracked air can flow through more easily. This decreases the effectiveness of the window as an insulation and protects against the elements. This can allow cold or hot air to enter your home, based on the season. The cost of cooling and heating will rise.If the crack in your double glazing isn't too deep, it might be possible to simply apply a strong-hold tape. This is only temporary fix and may be able to stop the crack from getting worse. A professional window repair company can repair any broken glass on your double-glazed windows.Attempting to replace a broken window pane yourself can be challenging and potentially dangerous. If the crack is large and difficult to eliminate, you can try applying strips of masking tap in a crisscrossing design. If the crack isn't too large, you can hold it steady and use a razor blade to cut it off from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask when cutting glass. After the pane has been cut you must place it flat on a few layers of newspaper to catch any pieces that may fall.To install a new pane you'll need to buy replacement glass and prepare the frame. Find the opening of the frame and subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inch in both directions to ensure that the new pane will fit properly. Then, have the replacement glass cut according to this measurement at your local glass shop or hardware store. If you have wooden frames, buy some points for glaziers from hardware stores to put on the edges of your new pane. Make sure to place the points in a position that allows expansion and contraction, while keeping the putty level against the glass.Once your new pane is in place then spread an even layer of your preferred glazing compound with a putty knife. Use a linseed-oil-based putty like Sarco or a cheaper product like Dap glazing compound. Fill any gaps between the frame and the new pane using the appropriate compound. Be sure to smooth the compound so that it is even and level around the pane.Water LeaksThe presence of water leaks around the frame or sash is a common issue that happens when window sealant has deteriorated and requires replacement. Water leaks can damage the drywall and plaster surrounding the window, and can lead to damp or moldy walls that require to be repaired as soon as possible.A good quality double glazed window will have a gasket that firmly compresses when the sash is closed. The water that enters this area must be drained out through the weepholes in the frame. Sometimes, the weep hole may become blocked due to dirt and debris. Or, the weather stripping may need replacing.The lintel that is above the window can be a source of leaks. Installers who built the house may not have understood the importance of allowing the lintel to drain properly, or they may have clad it in concrete leaving a gap that rainwater could enter and get trapped, causing dampness or rot on the wood. The builders could have placed an angled fascia board above the windows to ensure water is directed properly. This will stop water entering the building.A gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed windows could also be a cause of leaks. It is possible that the gas argon or krypton that should be positioned between the glass to create insulation has escaped of the windows due to a worn out seal. While this isn't the most serious problem with windows that leak, it will affect energy efficiency. It should be addressed in the shortest time possible. In this situation double glazing replacement might be necessary. A professional can conduct an extensive evaluation, let you know where the leak is coming from and suggest solutions. They'll be able to tell you whether it is advisable to repair the window or replace it completely. They will also be able to give you a price for any necessary work.CondensationCondensation can be a problem with older double-glazed doors and windows. However, it is generally a simple fix. It is caused by an absence of air flow around the window and often happens in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens. Water droplets on the surface of the glass are an obvious sign of condensation. These droplets will disappear quickly when the window is heated by sunlight. If the problem continues, it's worth looking into further.Another indicator of condensation is when you hear water drippy. This is most likely caused by a leak in the seal between the two glass panes. If you hear this sound, then a repair is highly recommended since it will block cold drafts from entering your home. This type of issue can cause mold over time, so it is best to fix the window as soon as you can.A professional can inspect your window and recommend the best option. Most professional companies will remove the affected window and pipe hot air into the gap between the two, this will evaporate any moisture that remains and ensure that a high-quality seal is applied.Double condensation on glazing is caused by windowpane seals. Cool air enters double-paned windows when the window seal breaks and causes them to become cloudy. If this occurs it's possible that simple fixes can help, but in many instances, the best option is to replace the window.A spacer bar can be located between the two glass panes of most double-glazed windows. This spacer bar contains desiccant, which sucks up any moisture and prevents it from getting into the glass. This bar is susceptible to cracking or breaking, and it's often necessary to replace your entire window.You can make some repairs yourself with the right tools. However, it is more common to hire a professional who is trained to do this. You'll save a lot of time and ensure that the double-glazing is repaired correctly. A reliable tradesman will offer a guarantee on the work they have done that you could not get if you attempted to repair it yourself.ShatteringDouble glazing is an amazing invention that allows homeowners to save money on heating costs, while keeping their homes warm and comfortable. It isn't impervious to damage and problems can arise periodically. These issues can be dangerous in certain instances if they are not corrected quickly.If you spot any issues with your double-glazing that could put your family members in danger, it is important to address them as quickly as possible. Faults like misting and water leaks can compromise the effectiveness of windows and cause them to appear ugly.It is often far cheaper to fix your double glazed windows than it would be to replace them entirely. If you notice any signs of trouble in your double glazing it is worthwhile to research local companies that specialize in double-glazed window repairs and getting estimates. The most affordable quote might not be the best choice. Be sure that the company you choose offers an assurance on their work.Double-glazed windows are sold as an Insulated Glass unit (IGU). The Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) is composed of two glass panes that have an area between them, and a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking through the gap. Some IGUs contain the gas argon. It keeps heat from leaving the home and saves you money 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 normally far cheaper than replacing the whole window and is cheaper for most households.Depending on the kind of window you have and the condition of the frame, it could be possible to simply repair the damaged window. If the glass has formed only a few small chips, but not been shattered, this is usually the case. If your double-glazed window is completely cracked and cracked, it's likely to replace the entire glass unit and the window sash.