Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. This will be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use a pair of gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to create an even surface for your new glazing.
After the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to ensure your window stays secure and sealed and will help you save energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. There are several options available, 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 is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.
Regardless of the material you pick regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it's best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
The process is complicated and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and install the new one, but it can be done by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the job to an expert. These tools could be dangerous.
If you choose to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is essential to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also recommended. When the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is properly installed. Once the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to slide and become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens, but it may be better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes, which are separated by a space filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep the temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the space between the window panes, which causes water to vapourize.
It is a natural phenomenon however, if it happens between the windows' panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. 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 sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
There are companies in the industry which claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog but we don't recommend this method. This method is not only ugly, but it can also damage the toughened glass and result in a window that does not fully function.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it could result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, like dampness or rot. In some cases the window might need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of issues.
Condensation in between the panes is among the most common. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing, it can be an indication that you need to seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will require a re-installation.
window repairs -glazed windows may also cause draughts. It could be due to a failed seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating costs It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a clear indication that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a little bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. In time, this special packaging material could be compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This allows air to move between the panes, decreasing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is an indication of failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.