Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is a great way to ensure that they function properly.
Over time condensation and misting could impact your double-glazed windows. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers or an intense storm could shatter your double pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is in good condition So you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping from the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose 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 that is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and can also shield your windows from rain and ice.
No matter what material you choose it's essential to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and assist it stick to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can roll out 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 to address these issues. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires special tools to take off the old pane and install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will supply the required equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this type of work to an expert.
If you choose to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. Once the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case, but it may be better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes, which are separated by a space filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up in it.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can be a problem since it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the field which claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window, but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be replaced entirely.
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. Over time, the gas can become depressurised and cause many problems.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failing, but it could be a sign you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is essential to fix the issue as quickly as possible. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you will need to replace the seals on 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 their place. However, over time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is a sign of failure and should be repaired as soon as possible. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.