Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time condensation and misting may be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue, a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using a bit of DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need remove the
broken glass from the frame. This will be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to ensure your window stays secure and sealed and will help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and can also shield your windows from rain and ice.
No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by an expert who will replace both panes.
The process is complicated and requires the use of special tools to take off the old pane and install the new one, however it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the required equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is best to leave this type task to a professional.
If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is also important to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame is dry and clean then you'll need purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is secure in the right place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to sag and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however it is better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that occurs 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 space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold outdoor air out.
This seal can become damaged over time and
broken moisture can build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the space between the window panes, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes,
broken it can cause a problem as it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend this method. This method is not only unsightly, but it could also damage the toughened glass and
double glazing can result in windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. The moisture in the window may also lead to other problems in your home like damp or rot. In certain cases windows, they may have to be completely replaced.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may be depressurized and cause a variety of problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged however it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has broken, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
You should also look out for drafts coming through your double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in position. However, over time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could break the all-important seal. This allows air to flow between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has ruptured seals is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as is possible.
