Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
Over time your double glazed windows may experience problems like condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to repair, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.
After the frame has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window, and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.
No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and assist it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing the panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and supply the equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky, so it is always best to leave this kind of job to professionals.
If you choose to do it yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also important to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame has dried it is time to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Depending on your frames depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is securely in the right place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens, but it may be better to seek advice from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside which allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture can build up between the glass panes, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens 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 sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal again.
There are companies in the field who claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this method. This is not just ugly, but it can cause damage to the toughened glass and leave you with windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could result in mould, which can not only cause damage to the window, but risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can cause other issues within your home like damp or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It is not a sign of a window failing, but it could be a sign you need to reseal the panes. Condensation may also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a broken handle or lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to determine 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. window repairs near me is a clear indication that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in place. Over time, this special packaging material may be compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.