Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever necessary is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time your double glazed windows may experience issues like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good shape and you can repair your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be cautious to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to keep your window secure and sealed and aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is recommended to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this task and provide the equipment. It is recommended to leave the work to professionals. These tools can be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is essential to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You will also want to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in the right place. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close. double glazing repairs New Malden can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature in your home comfortable.
This seal can fail over time, and water can accumulate between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to appear misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the gap between panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
It is a natural phenomenon however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could be a problem because it won't be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the individual blow-sealed unit without having to replace the whole window which is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to create a watertight seal again.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we do not recommend this method. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
If you don't address the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but could also pose health risks to your loved ones. The moisture in the window may cause other issues with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or failed
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing many issues.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing, it can be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be an indication of a damaged double glazing, which could require a re-installation.
You should also look out for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
You may also see water beads on the outside of windows when your window seals are failing. This is a clear indication that you will need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material can become compacted and this will crack the crucial seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is an indication of a failure and should be fixed immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair specialist when you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.