Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable 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 is in good condition and you can repair your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is messy work and you'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.
Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It can also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering your 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 which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. 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 snow and ice.
Regardless of the material you select, it is important to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can roll out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing the panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, but it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to professionals. These tools could be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is securely in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to sag and stick. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside and allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
The seal may be damaged over time, and moisture can build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to appear misty. This happens because the sun heats the gap between window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.
It is a natural phenomenon, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems 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. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend using this method. This method is not only ugly, but it can also damage the toughened glass and result in windows that don't completely perform its function.
It is important to fix the problem as soon as you can, because if 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 in the window can cause other issues in your home, such as damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurised and cause many problems.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window has failed however it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to the seal being damaged, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as possible. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
There will also be water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is a sign that you will need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in position. In time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This can cause the seal to become broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown a seal is an indication of failure and should be fixed as soon as is possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you discover a blowing seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.