Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to keep them in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may experience issues such as condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
window repairs or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This can be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be careful to stop glass shards from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken piece take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant and debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of the frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It can also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, as well as 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 snow and ice.
No matter what material you use, it's important to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are broken. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires special tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous it is recommended to leave this kind task to an expert.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also important to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame has dried it is time to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure that your new glass is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to slide and become stuck. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however it is better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outside air out.
The seal may become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass, causing them misty. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between the window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it won't be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit without the need to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to create a watertight seal again.
Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but could also cause health risks for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may also lead to other problems in your home 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 helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas may depressurize, leading to a number of problems.
Condensation between panes is among the most common. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is failing, it can 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.
It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from the double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. It is essential to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
There will also be water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals are failing. This is an indication that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair expert when you spot a damaged seal in your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.