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. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time, condensation and misting can impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and 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 and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This can be messy work and you'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glazing.
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 most effective way to ensure that your window is secure and sealed and will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will keep out snow and rain as well.
Whatever the material you select regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is recommended to contact the window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will replace both panes.
This procedure is a bit difficult and requires the use of special tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools could be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also essential to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves in which the new window will go. It is also recommended to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have You will then have to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secure in the right place. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any here necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and 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 help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside, and cold outside air out.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.
This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem because it won't be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to create a watertight seal again.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This method is not only ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not completely perform the function it was intended to.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated it can result in the growth of mould that not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture can also cause other problems in your home, including dampness or rot. In some instances 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 improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize and cause a variety of problems.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged but it could be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be caused by an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
There will also be water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a sign that you should 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. In time, this special packaging material may become compacted. This could cause the seal to be broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.