Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
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 close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or a flying pebble from your lawnmower, 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 but you don't need to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding off the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.
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 most effective way to ensure your window stays sealed and protected, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by keeping water and drafts from getting into your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and can keep your window from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out rain and ice.
No matter what material you decide to use it is important to press the glaziers points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is best to call the company that installed the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the issues. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing the panes.
The process is tricky and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, but it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to delegate the task to a professional. These tools could be risky.
my explanation and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is securely installed. After the caulk is dry it is time to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double glazed windows can become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and cause them to sag or stick. If this is the case try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to contact the company that installed your windows to help.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside and cold outside air out.
This seal can be damaged over time, and moisture may build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to appear misty. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up within it.
This is a natural occurrence however, if it happens between the windows' panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blow sealed unit without the need to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the unit of glass and replacing it with a new one. This will result in an airtight seal again.
There are some companies in the field that claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate fog condensation but we do not recommend this method. This is not just unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not completely perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, because if left untreated, it could cause mould growth that not only damages the window but also poses health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can cause other issues within your home like damp or rot. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not a sign of a failure in the window, but it could be a sign that you should reseal the panes. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle or a broken lock. It is crucial to address the issue as quickly as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material may be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A damaged seal is a clear 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 purpose of keeping cold out and warm in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you notice a blown seal on your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.
