Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It stops loss of heat during winter months and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a cloth to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out snow and ice.
Whatever material you pick regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for these problems. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by an expert who will replace both panes.
It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and supply the tools. It is recommended to leave the work to professionals. These tools could be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is essential to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is securely installed. After the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case, but it may be better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outdoor air out.
In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to accumulate between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it can be a problem since it will no longer be able control the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence 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 needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, and then replacing window and door repair it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
There are companies within the field who claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture can also cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of problems.
Condensation between panes is one of the most frequent. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will require re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also cause drafts. This could be because of the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
You may also see water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you will need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This could cause the seal to become broken. This will allow air to move between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has broken a seal is a sign of failure and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping cold out and warm in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you notice a blown window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.