Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a severe storm can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or falling from the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass take care to clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to ensure that your window is secure and sealed, and it will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are several options available, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window 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 the frame of your window and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever material you use it's essential to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and assist it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and supply the equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to a professional. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is recommended. When the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure your new glass is securely installed. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows get more info can be difficult to open and close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to slide and become stuck. If this is the issue you could try wiping down the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows to help.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside and allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the windows, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a normal thing to happen, but when it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This will create an airtight seal again.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and result in a window that does not completely perform its function.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family. The moisture in the window may cause other issues within your home, such as damp or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised and cause many problems.
Condensation between panes is among the most frequent. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be due to an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a damaged lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator 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 their place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could be compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.