Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent heat loss during the winter months and helps keep your home cool during summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is an excellent way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a severe storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling onto the floor or sliding from the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new window.
After the frame has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and helps 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 can also shield your windows from snow and ice.
Whatever material you select, it is important to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this job and provide the equipment. It is best to leave the job to a professional. These tools could be hazardous.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is essential to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. It is also recommended to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them fall or stick. If this is the issue try wiping the frames down with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to ask the company who installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside which allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
This seal can become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the space between the panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.
This is a natural process however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could cause problems since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal again.
window repair in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not suggest this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not fully function.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could cause mold, which could not only harm the window, but cause health risks for your loved ones. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas may become depressurised and cause various problems.
Condensation between panes is one of the most frequent. It is not a sign of a failure in the window however it could indicate that you should reseal the panes. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
You should also look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
You may also see water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a clear indication that you will need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will be compressed and cause the seal to break. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.