Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to keep them in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix however, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding from the frame. Use a pair of gloves to shield your hands from injury and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected and aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and can keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match your frame, and it will keep snow and rain out too.
Whatever material you use it is important to press the glazier's points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for the issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are broken and must be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and provide the equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this kind of work to an expert.
If you do decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is crucial to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in the right place. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and this can make them fall or stick. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case, but it may be better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold outdoor air out.
The seal could become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the sun heats the gap between the window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of 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 repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass unit and replacing it with a brand new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not suggest this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could also damage the toughened glass and result in a window that does not fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is essential to address the issue as soon as you can, as if untreated, it can result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can cause other issues within your home such as damp or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas can become depressurised, leading to a number of issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It is not a sign of a window failure, but it could be a sign that you should reseal the panes. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured seals is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm inside. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could lead to mold more info and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.