Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool in summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows fixed when they need to is a great way to ensure that they function properly.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers or even a severe storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged 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 condition and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for the new glazing.
Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed and will save you money by keeping water and drafts from entering the house. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and can also shield your windows from the elements like ice and rain.
Whatever the material you pick, it is important to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the tools. Utilizing these tools could be risky it is best to leave this type task to professionals.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. It is essential to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming upvc repairs a damp cloth is recommended. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have You will then have to apply the caulk to the grooves to ensure that your new pane is securely in the right place. Once the caulk has dried, you will need to smooth it and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the issue you could try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.
The seal may 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, which causes water to vapourize.
This is a normal process, 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 affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is much more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.
There are companies in the industry who claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we don't recommend this method. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.
It is important to fix the problem as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it can lead to mould growth that not only damages the window, but also poses health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause other issues in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be replaced entirely.
Blown or failed
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 cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize, leading to a number of issues.
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 that you should reseal them. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has failed in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be caused by an issue with the seal or a damaged handle lock. It is essential to fix this issue as soon as possible. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert when you notice a blown window seal. They can fix the entire unit.