Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat in the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as required is a great method to ensure they are in good condition.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from issues like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy 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 but you don't need to replace it completely. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape So you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This can be messy work, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or sliding out of the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a new layer of glass to the place where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It can also save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are many options available 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. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out rain and ice.
Whatever material you use it's essential to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double 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 cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
This process is a little difficult and requires the use of specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be accomplished by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to a professional. These tools could be hazardous.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is important to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. When the frame is dry and clean then you'll need 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'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. Once the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then window repair near me can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may 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 slide and become stuck. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.
As time passes, the seal can break down and moisture will start to build up between the windows, causing them to become misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up within it.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window which does not function properly.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other issues in your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is failing however it could be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. It could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills It is therefore essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
You 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 need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in position. However, over time this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This allows air to move between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
Double glazing that has broken an air seal is a sign of failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary function which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you discover a blowing seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.