Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time your double glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix, 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 windows with a bit of DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear gloves for your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to put in your new glass.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the area in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed, and it will help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame and will keep out snow and rain too.
Whatever the material you pick 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 glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is best to call the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is a clear sign 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 window. A professional can do this task and supply the equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is recommended to leave this kind of work to professionals.
If you decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is essential to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is recommended. After the door repairs near me frame is dry you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your new glass is secure in its installation. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. 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 down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop in it.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes, it can cause a problem as it can no longer control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass unit and replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal again.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We don't recommend this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with windows that don't completely function.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only harm the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may also lead to other problems in your home like damp or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause various issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window has failed, it can be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it should be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. This could be because of a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit in order to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time this particular packaging material will be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
A damaged seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert when you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.