Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool in summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to keep them in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may experience problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter your double-pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.
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 onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to eliminate any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the place where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are a variety of options 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. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.
Whatever material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover the problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this problem by replacing both panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, but it can be done by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools could be hazardous.
If you choose to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. It is essential to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame is clean and dry then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in place. After the caulk dries, you will need to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can fall or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case however it is better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold air outside.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, which causes water vapour to build up in it.
This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it will no longer be able to control the temperature within the room. Instead, window repair near me outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to make a watertight seal again.
There are companies within the field that claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which they say removes the fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not just unsightly, but it could also damage the toughened glass and result in windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mould, which can not only cause damage to the window, but cause health risks for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may cause other problems with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
Condensation between the panes is among the most common. It's not a sign of a window failing however it could be a sign you need to reseal them. Condensation could also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will require re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is important to fix this problem as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel 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 have to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. In time, this special packaging material could become compacted. This can cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to flow between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary function that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you discover a blowing seal in your double glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.