Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.
Over time, condensation and misting can impact your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping from the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing the broken piece take care to clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It will also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out rain and snow as well.
Regardless of the material you pick, it is important to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to will cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this problem by replacing 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. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is best to leave this kind of work to professionals.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also crucial to 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 has dried it is time to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will have to apply a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure your new glass is properly installed. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however it is better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised 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 air outside and allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
The seal may be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the glass panes, causing them misty. window repairs happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form within it.
This is a normal process, but when it occurs between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the individual blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the industry which claim to drill holes in your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the fog & condensation, however, we don't recommend this method. This method isn't just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated it can lead to mould growth, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other problems in your home like damp or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
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 the cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation between panes is among the most common. It is not a sign of a failure in the window, but it could be a sign you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has failed in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from the double-glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is essential to fix the issue as quickly as possible. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
There will also be water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is a clear indication that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a bit in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. Over time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to move between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping cold out and warm in. In addition, a blown seal can let 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 in your double glazed windows, as they are able to replace the entire unit.