Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cooler during the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is a great way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time condensation and misting may impact your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or an intense storm could shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged 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 condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of 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 a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to install your new window.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match the frame you have and will keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever the material you select regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's facets into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and assist it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes which you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. There are warranties and guarantees to address these problems. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
This process is a little tricky and requires the use of special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. It is best to delegate the work to an expert. These tools can be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. Once 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. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply the caulk on the grooves to ensure that the new pane is securely in position. After the caulk dries it is time to smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem you could try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes that are separated by a gap filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside and allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
Over time however, this seal can break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop in it.
This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the individual blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a new one. This will result in an airtight seal again.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not suggest this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and can result in a window that does not completely perform its function.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can depressurize, leading to a number of problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failure, but it could indicate that you should replace them. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing has failed, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. It is important to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
There will also be window repair near me on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a clear indication that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a little bit in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material can become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has broken a seal is an indication of a failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you spot a damaged seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.