Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent method to ensure they are operating effectively.
Over time condensation and misting could be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window yourself.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task and you'll need to be careful to stop glass shards from falling on the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. 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 frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected and save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match the frame you have and will also keep snow and rain out as well.
Whatever material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. There are warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
This procedure is a bit difficult and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and install the new one, however it can be accomplished by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to leave the work to an expert. These tools could be dangerous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your glass is secure in its installation. Once the caulk has dried and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them fall or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that occurs when moisture gets 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 better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the space between the panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes it can cause a problem as it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace the blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. double glazed windows repair involves removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
There are companies within the industry which claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog however, we don't recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with a window that does not completely perform its function.
If you don't address the problem immediately, it could lead to mould, which can not only harm the window, but could also risk health issues for your family members. Moisture can also cause other issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised, leading to a number of issues.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is failing, it can be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you will need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in position. However, with time, this special packaging material may get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can replace the entire unit.