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 in summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is a great way to keep them working properly.
Over time, condensation and misting can affect your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a storm that is heavy can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to fix however, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned windows yourself.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new window.
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 reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are many options available, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film that 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 choose regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover these issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
The process is complicated and requires the use of special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the required equipment. It is best to leave the task to a professional. These tools could be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is essential to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. After the frame is dry and clean you'll need to purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it into the grooves.
Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is secured in the right place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and this can make them fall or stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens, but it may be better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
If window repair is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold air outside.
This seal can become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the glass panes and cause them to become to appear misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form in it.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it won't be able control the temperature within the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is much more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass, then replacing it with a new one. This will result in a watertight seal again.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This is not only ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with a window that does not fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't address the issue immediately it could result in mould, which could not only damage the window, but cause health risks for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be replaced entirely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause various issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failing however it could be a sign you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to seal your double-glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material can be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This allows air to flow between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary function which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is important to contact a specialist in double glazing repair as soon as you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.