Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to keep them in good working order.
Over time, condensation and misting can affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair 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 windows with a bit of DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work, and you'll want to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for your hands, and place a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame, and it will keep out rain and snow too.
No matter what material you use it's essential to press the glazier's points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is best to call the company that supplied the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit difficult and requires the use of special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the required equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this kind task to an expert.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame is dry and clean, you will need to order a piece of replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is properly installed. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it and make any adjustments window and door repair needed. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can sag or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case however it is better to consult the company that installed your windows.
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 space typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air in, and cold outside air out.
This seal can become damaged over time and moisture can build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the gap between the window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in 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 the sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window, which is a lot less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
There are companies in the field that claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
It is essential to address the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it could cause mould growth, which not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause other issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of issues.
Condensation between panes is among the most common. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged, it can be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be an indication of a damaged double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
Also, look out for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle or lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is a sign that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time this special packaging material may be compressed and break the all-important seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has broken a seal is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair expert when you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.