Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time, condensation and misting can be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even an intense storm could shatter the double pane windows of your home and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. 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 ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. 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 select the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out snow and ice.
Whatever the material you pick regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the new 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
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to contact the window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
The process is tricky and requires specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the job to a professional. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame is dry and clean you'll need to order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the window, and then test it into the grooves.
You will have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping the window repairs frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens, but it may be better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is made up of two panes that are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will start to build up between the windows, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the gap between panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
It is a natural phenomenon however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it won't be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. 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 whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit and replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight and will be watertight.
There are some companies in the industry which claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them, which they claim will eliminate the fog & condensation but we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it could lead to mould growth, which not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised and cause many problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window has failed however it could be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing has broken, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating costs, so it is important to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
There will also be water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you should replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could cause the seal to break. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist immediately you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.