Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. Be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It is essential to smooth rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for the new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to keep your window safe and sealed and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. Some options include clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.
Whatever material you use, it's important to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your 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 they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for the issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
The process is difficult and requires the use of specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the required equipment. It is best to delegate the task to an expert. These tools could be dangerous.
If you choose to do this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from 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 it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried, you'll need to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is securely in the right place. Once the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. window repairs 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 in the event that this happens however, it's better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold air outside.
As time passes, the seal can break down and moisture can begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form in it.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace the blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to create an airtight seal.
There are companies within the industry who claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we don't recommend this method. This method is not only unsightly, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and result in windows that don't completely perform the function it was intended to.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failure, but it could be a sign you need to reseal the panes. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to an issue with the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating costs, so it is important to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
There will also be water beads on the outside of windows if your window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you have to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material may become compacted. This could cause the seal to become broken. This will allow the air to move between the panes, which will reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is important to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.