Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cool in summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
Over time, condensation and misting can affect your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball 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 isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes remains in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling onto the floor or sliding from the frame. Wear gloves for your hands and use a rag around the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken pane and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install your new window.
After the frame has been cleaned then you can apply a new layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective way to keep your window safe and sealed and aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and can keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out snow and ice.
Regardless of the material you select, it is important to press glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
The process is tricky and requires the use of special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the required equipment. It is best to delegate the work to a professional. These tools can be risky.
If you do decide to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. It is also important to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You will require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the problem you could try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
The seal may be damaged over time, and moisture can build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to appear misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form within it.
This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes it can be a problem since it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
window repair milton keynes in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend using this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and result in a window that does not fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't address the issue quickly it could result in mould, which can not only damage the window, but also cause health risks for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may cause other issues within your home such as damp or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. Over time, the gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of problems.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is damaged but it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation may be a sign your double glazing has failed in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows if your window seals are failing. This is a sign that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. Over time, this special packaging material can become compacted. This can result in the seal being broken. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured a seal is an indication of failure and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you notice a blown window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.
