Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to keep them in good working order.
Over time, your double glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball, a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape and you can repair your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After removing the broken piece and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It's important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It will also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. There are several options such as 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 to match your frame and will keep out snow and rain too.
No matter what material you use it's essential to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to will cover the issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by an expert 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 supply the tools. Making use of these tools can be risky it is best to leave this type of work to an expert.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame is clean and dry, you will need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
Depending on your frames depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secure in position. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and cause them to slide or become stuck. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens, but it may be better to seek advice from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside which allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
The seal may fail over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the gap between the window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a normal thing to happen, but when it occurs between the window panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room, and allows 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 blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to make a watertight seal again.
There are some companies in the field who claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we don't recommend this method. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window which does not function properly.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only harm the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, like dampness or rot. In some instances the window might need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or blown
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. Over time the gas will become depressurised and cause various problems.
Condensation in between the panes is among the most common. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is failing however it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will require re-installation.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. It could be due to a failed seal or a damaged handle or a damaged lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is a clear indication that you will need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. In time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This can result in the seal being broken. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the efficiency of your window.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a specialist in double glazing repair when you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.