Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired when needed is a great way to keep them working effectively.
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 stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window with a little DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding off the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will keep out rain and snow too.
Regardless of the material you select, it is important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires the use of special tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be done by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to delegate the job to an expert. These tools can be dangerous.
If you decide to do it yourself, ensure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that might fly away during the process. It is important to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. After the frame is clean and dry you'll need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to sag and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens however it is better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside and cold outside air out.
The seal may become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, which causes water vapour to build up in it.
It is a natural phenomenon however if it occurs between the windows' panes it check here can be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, and replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.
There are companies in the field who claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the fog & condensation however, we do not recommend this method. This method isn't just ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
If you don't address the problem immediately it could cause mould, which can not only damage the window, but also cause health risks for your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause a variety of problems.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could indicate that you should replace them. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by smelling cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material can become compacted. This can cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from performing its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a specialist in double glazing repair when you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.