Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time, your double glazed windows may experience issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed 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 that is between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It will also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out rain and ice.
No matter what material you decide to use, it's important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to call the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address the 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 repaired by a professional who will fix both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be done by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to an expert. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your glass is securely installed. After the caulk dries, you will need to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to sag and stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens however, it's better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the windows, causing them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to form within it.
It is a natural phenomenon, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it can be a problem because it won't be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.
There are companies in the industry that claim to drill holes in your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we don't recommend this method. This is not only unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it could result in the growth of mould that not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family. The moisture in the window may cause other issues within your home like damp or rot. In certain situations, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency by keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing various problems.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is damaged, it can be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating bills, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You may also see water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals are failing. This is an indication that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in position. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert when you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.