Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Having your double glazed windows fixed when they need to is a great way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time, your double glazed windows may experience problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands and a rag to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface 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 best method to protect and seal your window. It will also save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, as well as 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 can also shield your windows from rain and ice.
Whatever the material you choose regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous, however it is best to leave this type of job to a professional.
If you choose to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is also crucial to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also 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 the window that you have and then fit it into the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens however, it's better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air in, and cold air outside.
This seal can become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become to appear misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, which causes water vapour to build up in it.
This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it could be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend this method. This method is not just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
It is crucial to resolve the problem as soon as you can, as if untreated, it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window, but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes, the gas can be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could indicate that you should reseal them. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing, which could require re-installation.
Also, look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a broken lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you will need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a little bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compacted. This will cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair immediately if you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.