Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat in the winter months and keeps your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time condensation and misting could be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work and you'll need to be careful to stop glass shards from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. It is essential to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed and help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. There are many options available including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.
Whatever material you decide to use it's essential to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to call the company that supplied the window. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will replace both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the tools. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools can be risky.
If you decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is crucial to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry it is time to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. After the caulk is dry it is time to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause 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 is better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outdoor air out.
The seal could become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This happens because the sun's heat causes the space between the window panes, which causes water to evaporate.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass, then replacing it with a new one. This creates a watertight seal again.
There are some companies in the industry which claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate fog & condensation, however, we don't recommend this method. This is not only unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. The moisture in the window may cause other problems with your property, such as damp or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed click here windows consist of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. Over time the gas will become depressurised and cause a variety of problems.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It's not a sign of a window failing, but it could be a sign you should reseal the panes. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing that will need to be replaced.
You should also look out for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. This could be caused by the seal being damaged or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material can become compacted and this will crack the crucial seal. This will allow the air to move between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has broken an air seal is an indication of failure and should be repaired as soon as is possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist immediately you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.