Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time, condensation and misting can be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter 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. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is in good condition So you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This can be a messy job and you'll need to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
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 best method to ensure that your window is secure and sealed and save you money by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the glazing material. Some options include clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out rain and ice.
No matter what material you decide to use, it's important to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and assist it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows are damaged and must be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and install the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of job to professionals.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is clean and dry then you'll need purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
Depending on your frames depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secured in place. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to slide and become stuck. If this is the issue you could try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop in it.
This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it can cause damage to the toughened glass and result in windows that do not fully perform its function.
It is essential to address the issue as quickly as you can, because if left untreated, it could result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or Blown
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 cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window has failed, it can be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. Test the seals on the window frame by smelling cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material could become compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has blown a seal is a sign of failure and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing from performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert when you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.