Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever needed is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a flying stone from your lawnmower or even an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair but you don't need to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task and you'll need to be careful to stop glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to protect and seal your window, and will save you 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 that 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 advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your frame and will keep snow and rain out too.
Whatever the material you select, it is important to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and aid it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to call the company that installed the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can resolve this problem by replacing both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this task and supply the equipment. It is best to leave the work to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. After the frame is clean and dry then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it 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 and is dry, you must smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them sag or stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens however, it's better to seek advice from the company double glazing repairs 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 area, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep the temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
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 gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up within it.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it can be a problem because it won't be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the fog & condensation but we don't recommend this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not completely perform its function.
It is essential to address the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
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 warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. It is not a sign of a window failure however it could be a sign that you should replace them. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through your double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failed seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you begin to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.