Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a storm that is heavy can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned windows yourself.
To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After removing 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 cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It will also save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window safe from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will keep out snow and rain as well.
Whatever material you pick, it is important to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that installed the window. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only a professional can resolve this problem by replacing both panes.
It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this job and provide the tools. It is best to leave the task to an expert. These tools can be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove all metal or putty 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. Once the frame is dry and clean then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
Based on the frame you have, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves 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 necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens, but it may be better to consult the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold air outside.
The seal may become damaged over time and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form in it.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes, it could cause problems as it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window, which is a lot less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend using this method. This is not only unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture can also cause other issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It is not a sign of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should replace the windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing, which could require re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be because of an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be quite obvious and result in higher heating costs It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
There will also be water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This could result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured seals is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing from performing its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist when you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.