Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a severe storm can break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to repair, you don't have to replace it entirely. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be careful to stop glass shards from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. Some options include clear tape that is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and can also shield your windows from rain and ice.
Whatever 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 aid it stick to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it's best to contact your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are broken. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this task and provide the tools. It is best to delegate the task to a professional. These tools can be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the case try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows to help.
Misted
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 which are separated by a gap filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outside air out.
The seal could fail over time, and moisture may build up between the glass panes and cause them to become misty. This occurs because the sun's rays heat the gap between window panes, causing water to vapourize.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to fog.
We can replace the sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit and replacing it with a new one. This creates a seal that is watertight again.
Some companies in the industry claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We don't recommend using this method. This is not only ugly, but it can also harm the toughened glass and leave you with windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated, it could result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can cause other problems in your home such as damp or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It is not a sign of a window failing however it could indicate that you should reseal the windows. Condensation is also 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. It could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a broken lock. It is essential to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
double glazing repairs Maldon may also see water beads on the inside of windows when your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a little bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material can become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair expert when you notice a blown seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.