Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time your double glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This is messy work, and you'll want to take care to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and a rag around 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 is important to sand rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glass.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed and help you save energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match the frame you have, and it will keep snow and rain out too.
Whatever material you decide to use, it's important to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll 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 provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover these problems. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. It is best to leave the work to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.
If you choose to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is important to remove all 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. Once the frame has dried it is time to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your 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 your new glass is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
As time passes, the seal will begin to break down and moisture can begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.
There are some companies in the field who claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not fully function.
If window repairs near me don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mould, which could not only harm the window, but also cause health risks for your family members. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems in your home like damp or rot. In certain cases, the window may need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
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 depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failure, but it could be a sign you should replace the windows. Condensation can be a sign your double glazing has broken, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of the window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if your window seals are failing. This is a sign that you should seal your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, with time, this special packaging material may get compacted, and this could cause the seal to break. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.