Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to repair however, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This can be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning window repairs , you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to protect and seal your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match your existing frame, and it will keep out snow and rain too.
No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover the problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing the panes.
It's a complicated procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is recommended to leave this kind of work to a professional.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to take out all metal or putty 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 is clean and dry then you'll need purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
Based on the frames you have You will then have to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is secured in place. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may be 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, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. 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 results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the space between the window panes, which causes water to vapourize.
It is a natural phenomenon however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem since it will no longer be able control the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal and will be watertight.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the condensation and fog. We don't suggest this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, as if untreated it can cause mould growth that not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other issues with your property like damp or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may become depressurized, causing various issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation that forms between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing however it could indicate that you should replace the panes. Condensation could also be an indication of broken double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be due to the seal being damaged or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills, so it is important to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is a sign that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in position. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This allows air to move between the panes, reducing your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blowing window seal. They can fix the entire unit.