Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cool during summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is a great way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition So you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It's important to smooth rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are many options available 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 wrapping. This type of wrap has the advantage 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 decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it's best to call the window manufacturer. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that will cover these issues. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to professionals. These tools could be hazardous.
If you do decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. It is also important to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will be. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is clean and dry then you'll need get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in position. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any needed 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 of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however it is better to seek advice from 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 that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outdoor air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to form in it.
This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the panes of the window it can be a problem because it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass unit and replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the condensation and fog but we do not recommend this method. This is not just ugly, but it can cause damage to the toughened glass and can result in windows that don't completely function.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks to your family. The moisture in the window may cause other issues within your home like damp or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.
window repair between the panes is among the most frequent. It is not a sign of a failure in the window, but it could be a sign you should replace the windows. Condensation could also be an indication of broken double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is crucial to address this problem as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
There will also be water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a sign that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.