Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to fix however, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition and you can repair your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to take care to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.
No matter what material you decide to use, it's important 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. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and supply the tools. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. window repairs near me can be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry and clean, you will need to purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the window, and then test it in the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can sag or stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens however, it's better to seek advice 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 consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture will start to accumulate between the windows, causing them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the gap between panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes, it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit without the need to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend this method. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which does not function properly.
It is crucial to resolve the problem as soon as possible, as left untreated, it can result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window, but also poses health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In some instances the window might need to be replaced completely.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing many issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be due to an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. It is important to fix this problem as soon as possible. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a good indicator that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time this special packaging material can be compressed and break the all-important seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.