Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in 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 can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can repair your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This will be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to take care to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and a rag around the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for the new glazing.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and can keep your window safe 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 your frame and can also shield your windows from rain and ice.
Whatever the material you pick regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
It's a complicated process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this task and supply the tools. It is recommended to leave the work to professionals. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also essential to carefully 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. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is properly installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to slide and become stuck. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that 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 outdoor air outside which allows you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.
This seal can be damaged over time, and water can accumulate between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the gap between panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an watertight seal.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We don't suggest this method. This method isn't just ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In some cases it might be necessary 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 improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurized, causing various problems.
One of the most common is condensation between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing, but it could be a sign you should replace them. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
You may also see water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a sign that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. As time passes, this particular packaging material may become compacted. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is a sign of failure and should be repaired as soon as glazing repairs possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture in your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.