Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent heat loss during the winter months and helps keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a heavy storm can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can repair your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task, and you'll want to take care to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken piece take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant and debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from getting into your 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 safe from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. repair double glazed windows RepairMyWindowsAndDoors of this choice is that it can be painted to match your existing frame and will also keep out snow and rain as well.
No matter what material you use, it's important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address these problems. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit complicated and requires special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is recommended to leave this kind of job to professionals.
If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. You should also brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. When the frame is clean and dry you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than the window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
Depending on your frames depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is secure in place. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to slide and become stuck. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outdoor air out.
This seal can become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become to become cloudy. This happens because the sun's heat causes the space between the panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes it can be a problem since it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window, which is a lot less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and replacing it with a fresh one to make an watertight seal.
There are some companies in the industry which claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate condensation and fog however, we don't recommend this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and can leave you with a window that does not completely function.
If you don't take care to fix the issue immediately, it could lead to mould, which can not only cause damage to the window, but pose health risks to your loved ones. Moisture can also cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be completely replaced.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window has failed but it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged, in which case it should be replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts coming from the double-glazed windows. It could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is important to fix the issue as quickly as possible. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You may also see water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is a good indicator that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could break the all-important seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is a sign of failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist when you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.