Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to keep them in good working order.
Over time, condensation and misting can impact your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazing near me glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to repair however, you don’t have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two glass panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned windows yourself.
You’ll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This will be messy work, and you’ll want to be careful to stop glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, installed and a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays secure and sealed, and it will save you money by keeping water and drafts from entering the house. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever material you decide to 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. Glazier’s points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover these 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 an expert who will repair both panes.
It’s a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and supply the equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of work to an expert.
If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried you’ll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8″ shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass’s fit into the grooves.
You’ll need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to slide or become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens however it is better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture can build up between the glass panes, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun heats the gap between window panes, causing the water to evaporate.
This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the windows’ panes it could be a problem because it will no longer be able to control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature indoors. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown 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, washing it, and replacing it with a fresh one to make a watertight seal again.
There are companies in the field that claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not completely perform its function.
It is important to fix the problem as soon as you can, as if untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window, but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. It’s not an indication of a window failure however it could be a sign that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing has broken, in which case it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating costs It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
There will also be water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals aren’t performing as they should. This is a clear indication that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. Over time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This can cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to move between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window’s energy consumption.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is an indication of a failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.