Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and helps keep your home cool in summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.
Over time, condensation and misting can affect your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a heavy storm could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. Be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping off 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 removing the broken piece and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It's important to sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface for your new glazing.
Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the place where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to keep your window safe and sealed, and it will help you save energy costs by keeping water and drafts from getting into your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will keep out snow and rain as well.
Whatever the material you select regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and assist it stick to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
window repairs near me glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for these issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires the use of special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, but it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky, so it is always best to leave this kind of job to professionals.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is important to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame is clean and dry then you'll need purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the window that you have and then fit it in the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your new glass is securely installed. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows to help.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold outdoor air out.
This seal can be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the sun's heat causes the gap between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem 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 when your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
There are companies within the field that claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog but we don't recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not completely perform its function.
If you don't address the issue immediately, it could lead to mold, which could not only harm the window, but risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can cause other issues with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. Over time, the gas can become depressurized, causing various problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation that forms between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing but it could be an indication that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing, which will require re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. It could be due to a failed seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught is 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 your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows if the window seals are failing. 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 their place. Over time, this special packaging material may become compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow the air to move between the panes, which will reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is an indication of failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can fix the entire unit.