Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is a great way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time, your double glazed windows can 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 ball or a flying stone from your lawnmower or even an intense storm could shatter your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to repair but you don't need to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition So you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping from the frame. Wear work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective method to seal and protect your window, and will save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep out snow and rain as well.
No matter what material you choose it is important to press the glaziers points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that installed the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by an expert who will replace both panes.
This procedure is a bit difficult and requires specific tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, but it is possible to do this by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt 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 in which the new window will be. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame is dry and clean then you'll need purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and this can make them sag or stick. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
Over time however, this seal can break down and moisture can begin to accumulate between the window panes, which causes them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun heats the gap between the window panes, which causes water to evaporate.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the glazing repair near me temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass, then replacing it with a new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.
Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend using this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not fully perform its function.
If you don't fix the issue immediately it could result in mold, which could not only harm the window, but could also risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can cause other issues with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time the gas will become depressurised and cause various problems.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most common. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged, it can be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing is damaged, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be obvious and result in more expensive heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
You may also see water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material may become compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.