Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat in the winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is an excellent method to ensure they are operating correctly.
Over time condensation and misting may impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix but you don't need to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding from the frame. Use a pair of gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are window repair of options, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your existing frame, and it will keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever material you decide to use it's essential to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires special tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert. These tools can be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is important to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secure in the right place. After the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to sag and stick. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek advice from the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes, which are separated by a space filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside, allowing you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
This seal can be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the glass panes and cause them to become to appear misty. This happens because the sun heats the gap between window panes, which causes water to vapourize.
This is a normal process, but when it occurs between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in an airtight seal again.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend using this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that don't fully perform its function.
If you don't take care to fix the issue immediately it could cause mould, which could not only cause damage to the window, but cause health risks for your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurized, causing many issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It's not a sign of a window failure, but it could be a sign you should reseal the panes. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
You should also look out for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be quite obvious and result in higher heating bills It is therefore essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is when you start to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you should seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material can be compressed and cause the seal to break. This will allow air to flow between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
Double glazing that has blown seals is an indication of failure and needs to be repaired as soon as is possible. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.