Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as required is a great method to ensure they remain in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may experience issues like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged 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 shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding from 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 pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed and help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are several options available, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever material you pick, it is important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that you can roll out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this job and provide the equipment. It is best to leave the task to a professional. These tools could be risky.
If you choose to do it yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is also important to remove all 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 dry and clean you'll need to purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it into 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 secure in the right place. After the caulk is dry it is time to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to sag and stick. If this is the problem, you can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to ask the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside, allowing you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the space between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form within it.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem because it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass and replacing it with a new one. This creates a seal that is watertight again.
There are companies in the field who claim to drill holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which doesn't function properly.
If you don't address the issue immediately it could result in mould, which could not only cause damage to the window, but also cause health risks for your loved ones. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, like dampness or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of issues.
window repairs of the most frequently encountered is condensation that forms between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failure however it could indicate that you should replace the panes. Condensation could also be an indication of a damaged double glazing that will require re-installation.
It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating bills It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you start to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This will allow the air to move between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping cold out and warm in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.