Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to keep them in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a storm that is heavy can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This can be messy work and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to choose the glazing material. There are several options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will also keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever material you decide to use it's essential to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact the window manufacturer. There are warranties and guarantees to cover these problems. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are broken and must be repaired by a professional who will fix both panes.
This procedure is a bit difficult and requires specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. It is best to leave the job to a professional. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. window repairs near me is also recommended to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and cause them to sag or stick. If this is the problem try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep the temperature comfortable in your home.
In time, however, this seal can break down and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the space between the window panes, which causes water to evaporate.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.
There are companies in the industry who claim to drill holes in your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them that they say removes the fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this method. This method isn't just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it can result in the growth of mould which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, including dampness or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation between the panes is among the most common. It's not a sign of a failure in the window, but it could be a sign you should reseal the windows. Condensation could also be a sign of a broken double glazing, which could require a re-installation.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. It could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite evident and can result in higher heating bills, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to flow between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is an indication of a failure and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist when you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.