Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and keeps your home cool during summer. Having your double glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent method to ensure they are operating properly.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
First, window repairs 'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place in which 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. 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 that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires the use of specific 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 leave the work to an expert. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also essential to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame has dried it is time to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You will have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that your glass is secure in its installation. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.
This seal can be damaged over time, and water can accumulate between the glass panes, causing them misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to build up in it.
This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
There are companies within the field which claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate fog & condensation but we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that does not function properly.
If you don't fix the issue immediately, it could lead to mold, which could not only damage the window, but risk health issues for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be replaced completely.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not an indication of a failure in the window however it could indicate that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. This could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills It is therefore essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
There will also be water beads on the interior of windows if your window seals aren't working. This is a clear indication that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a little bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material may become compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary function, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.