Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces heat loss in the winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is a great method to ensure they are operating effectively.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken piece take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. window repair is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure that your window is sealed and protected and will aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.
No matter what material you use, it's important to press the glaziers points into the place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and aid it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that installed the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will replace both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. It is best to delegate the task to an expert. These tools can be risky.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.
Depending on your frames You will then have to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is securely in position. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can sag or stick. If this is the problem you could try wiping down the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outdoor air out.
This seal can be damaged over time, and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature indoors. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a new one. This will create an airtight seal again.
Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This method is not only ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and result in a window that does not completely perform its function.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated, it could cause mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised 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. As time passes, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing, but it could be a sign you need to reseal them. Condensation may also be a sign that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. It is essential to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you will need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time this special packaging material can become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair expert immediately if you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.