Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is a great method to ensure they are operating correctly.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmower, or even a storm that is heavy could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to repair but you don't need to have it replaced entirely. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition and you can repair your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag around the broken glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.
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 your window stays secure and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out snow and ice.
Whatever material you choose it's essential to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to will cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and supply the equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, however it is best to leave this type of work to professionals.
If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is also crucial to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. You will also want to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried it is time to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have, you will then need to apply the caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is securely in the right place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to accumulate between the windows, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the gap between panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a new one to create an watertight seal.
There are companies within the industry who claim to drill holes in your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which they say removes the condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass, leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
If window repairs don't take care to fix the issue quickly, it could lead to mould, which can not only harm the window, but could also risk health issues for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems with your property, such as damp or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing, it can be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of a damaged double glazing, which will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a broken handle or lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as possible. A draft will force you to pay more for heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a clear indication that you will need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a little bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. In time, this special packaging material could become compressed. This can cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you spot a damaged window seal. They can replace the entire unit.