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 in summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time condensation and misting may be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good shape and you can repair your double-pane window with a little DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or damage. After you have removed 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 the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed, and it will save you money by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose your glazing material. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that 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 too.
Whatever the material you pick regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.
The process is difficult and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this type task to a professional.
If you choose to do this yourself, ensure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is crucial to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. When the frame is dry and clean then you'll need get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it into the grooves.
You'll require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure your new glass is secure in its installation. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to fall or stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens however, it's better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes that are separated by a space filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outdoor air out.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture will begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the sun heats the gap between the window panes, which causes water to evaporate.
This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the individual blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window, which is a lot less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the unit of glass and replacing it with a new one. This creates a watertight seal again.
Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We do not recommend using this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and result in windows that don't fully function.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as you can, as if untreated it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems in your home like damp or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes, with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping warm air in and cold air out. Over time the gas will be depressurized and cause many issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged but it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. window repair can also be an indication of a damaged double glazing, which will require a re-installation.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material may be compressed and cause the seal to break. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is a sign of failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.