Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way 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 can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to fix but you don't need to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This will be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.
Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glazing to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to keep your window secure and sealed and will save you money by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. Some options include clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your frame and will keep out rain and snow too.
Whatever the material you choose regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it's recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover the problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can resolve this problem by replacing the panes.
This process is a little tricky and requires specific tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is best to leave the task to professionals. These tools could be risky.
If you 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 also essential to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will be. You should also brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
window repair near me will have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is properly installed. After the caulk is dry it is time to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a gap filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold outside air out.
The seal could fail over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become to appear misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems since it will no longer be able to control the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to create a watertight seal again.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We don't suggest this method. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window that does not function properly.
It is important to fix the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated, it could cause mould growth that not only damages the window, but also poses health risks for your family. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems in your home like damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas will become depressurized, causing various issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most frequent. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite evident and can result in higher heating costs, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can become compacted. This could result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has broken an air seal is an indication of failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.