Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired when needed is a great way to keep them working properly.
Over time, condensation and misting can be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. Be careful to avoid any glass shards falling onto the floor or sliding off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected and aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame and will also keep out snow and rain too.
Whatever the material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it's recommended to contact the window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will fix both panes.
It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this task and provide the equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to professionals. These tools could be hazardous.
If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is also important to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves in which the new window will be. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried it is time to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is properly installed. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and this can make them slide or become stuck. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is made up of two panes, which are separated by a gap filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the windows, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the gap between window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. 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 taking off and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a watertight seal and will be watertight.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We don't suggest this method. This is not just ugly, but it can cause damage to the toughened glass and result in a window that does not fully perform its function.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mould, which can not only damage the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases the window might need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas can become depressurised, leading to a number of problems.
One of the most common is condensation between the panes. It is not a sign of a window failure, but it could indicate that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation could also be an indication of broken double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
You should also look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Check window repairs around the window frame by smelling 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 need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This allows air to flow between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is a sign of failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can replace the entire unit.