Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time, your double glazed windows may experience issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This can be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to keep your window sealed and protected and help you save energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out rain and ice.
Whatever material you decide to use, it's important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. The glazier's point can be found 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's best to call the window manufacturer. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that cover the problems. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this task and provide the equipment. It is best to delegate the task to a professional. These tools could be dangerous.
If you do decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that might fly away during the process. It is important to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also recommended. After the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and this can make them slide or become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however it is better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between glazing repairs the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it won't be able to control the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, and replacing it with a fresh one to create a watertight seal again.
There are some companies in the field that claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which doesn't function properly.
It is important to fix the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated, it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but also poses health risks for your family. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems in your home, such as damp or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised and cause various issues.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing however it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing, which will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. It could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as possible. A draft will force you to pay more for heating. Check the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time this particular packaging material will become compacted and this will crack the crucial seal. This allows air to flow between the panes, decreasing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist when you notice a blown seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.