Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to ensure that they function properly.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands, and place an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. 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 surface on which to put in your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to keep your window safe and sealed, and it will save you money by keeping water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out rain and ice.
No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover these issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and must be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. It is best to leave the job to an expert. These tools could be risky.
If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is also essential to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. You will also want to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is clean and dry then you'll need purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is secure in place. After the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and this can make them sag or stick. If this is the problem try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows to help.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
This seal can become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the glass panes, causing them misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.
This is a normal process, but when it occurs between the window panes it can cause a problem as it can no longer control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass before replacing it with a new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.
Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
If you don't address the problem immediately it could result in mold, which could not only harm the window, but could also pose health risks to your loved ones. The condensation in the window could cause other problems in your home such as damp or rot. In certain situations, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or failed
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may become depressurised and cause various issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged however it could be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. This could be due to a failed seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compacted. This will result in the seal being broken. This allows air to move between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Furthermore, a blow-off seal website will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you discover a blowing seal in your double glazed windows, as they are able to replace the entire unit.