Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time condensation and misting could affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This can be an unpleasant task and you'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.
After the frame has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the area in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and can also shield your windows from the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to will cover the problems. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this task and provide the equipment. Making use of these tools can be risky, so it is always best to leave this type of job to an expert.
If you do decide to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. Once the frame is clean and dry you'll need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and cause them to sag or stick. If this is the issue try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is made up of two panes which are separated by a space 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 your temperature in your home comfortable.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the space between the panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
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 glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
There are some companies in the field who claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which they claim will eliminate the fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
window repairs is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can become depressurized, causing many issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failing, but it could indicate that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can be a sign your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause drafts. This could be caused by the seal being damaged or a damaged handle or lock. A draught can be noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of the window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you will need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move slightly and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. As time passes, this particular packaging material may become compressed. This could cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.