Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping from the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or damage. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new window.
Once the frame is cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the place where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective method to seal and protect your window, and will reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to choose the glazing material. There are many options available including 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 wrapping. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will keep snow and rain out as well.
No matter what material you choose it's essential to press the glaziers points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for the problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to a professional. These tools can be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also essential to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. When the frame is clean and dry, you will need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than the window, and then test it in the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in the right place. After the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them sag or stick. You can try wiping the repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
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 consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal can break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the gap between the window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes it can be a problem since it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is far 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 create a seal that is watertight again.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
If you don't fix the problem immediately it could result in mould, which can not only damage the window, but risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. It is not a sign of a window failure however it could indicate that you need to reseal the panes. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing has broken and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts that are coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is crucial to address this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time, this special packaging material can be compressed and cause the seal to break. This allows air to flow between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blowing window seal. They can fix the entire unit.