Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat in the winter months and helps keep your home cool in summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time condensation and misting may impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to fix but you don't need to replace it entirely. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass take care to clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any sealant residue and 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 fresh layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It can also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window, or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will keep out rain and snow too.
No matter what material you decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and aid it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for the problems. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
The process is complicated and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, however it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves in which the new window will go. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is secured in the right place. After the caulk dries it is time to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. If this is the issue, you can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
The seal may become damaged over time and moisture can build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a normal thing to happen, but when it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace the blow-sealed unit without having to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to make a watertight seal again.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass and leave 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 lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize and cause a variety of problems.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing however it could indicate that you should reseal them. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite obvious and result in more expensive heating bills, so it is important to fix it 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.
There will also be water beads on the inside of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. Over time, this special packaging material may become compacted. This could cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to flow between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a specialist in double glazing repair as soon as you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.