Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler during the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent method to ensure they are operating effectively.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball or a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a new layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and helps 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 the frame you have and will keep snow and rain out too.
Whatever material you pick regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes which you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it can be done by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. Making use of these tools can be risky it is best to leave this kind of job to an expert.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is important to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry and clean you'll need to purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is properly installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the case try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.
As time passes, the seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form within it.
This is a natural process however, if it happens between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it won't be able control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. 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 less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the unit of glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in a watertight seal and will be watertight.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them, which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could cause mould, which could not only harm the window, but pose health risks to your family members. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. window repairs increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, the gas can be depressurized and cause many issues.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is failing but it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation may be a sign your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. It could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is crucial to address this problem as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any 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 need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. Over time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This could result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to move between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.