Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is a great way to ensure that they function properly.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window 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 yourself.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This will be messy work, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass shards from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays secure and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out snow and ice.
Whatever material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and assist it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires the use of special tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, however it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the task to professionals. These tools could be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal upvc door repairs near me glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You'll require a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can fall or stick. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows for help.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon 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 your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
The seal could become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the panes of glass and cause them to become to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form in it.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to make an watertight seal.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This method is not just unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could cause mould, which can not only harm the window, but could also risk health issues for your family members. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced completely.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. Over time, this gas can become depressurised, leading to a number of 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 a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing has broken in which case it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be evident and can result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a little bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. Over time, this special packaging material may become compacted. This can cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair immediately if you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, as they are able to replace the entire unit.