Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent method to ensure they are operating correctly.
Over time condensation and misting may be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to repair but you don't need to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the seam where the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window, and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame, and it will keep out rain and snow too.
Whatever the material you select, it is important to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes which you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that provided the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
It's a complicated process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. It is best to leave the work to professionals. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into 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 securely installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them slide or become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold air outside.
As time passes, the seal can break down and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.
This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window upvc window repairs panes, it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create a watertight seal again.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This is not just ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and result in windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't address the issue immediately it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but also pose health risks to your loved ones. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be replaced entirely.
Blown or Failed
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 cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing various issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window has failed, it can be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has failed, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. It could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating bills, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material may be compressed and break the all-important seal. This will allow air to move between the panes, reducing your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has broken seals is an indication of failure and should be fixed as soon as is possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function that is to keep cold air out and warm air 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 double glazing repair specialist as soon as you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.