Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good working order.
Over time condensation and misting could impact your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have 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 with a bit of DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or slipping out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame after cleaning, you can apply a second layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to seal and protect your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are several options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out rain and ice.
No matter what material you use, it's important to press the glazier's points into that seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and aid it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to cover these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by an expert who will fix both panes.
This process is a little tricky 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. Making use of these tools can be risky, so it is always best to leave this kind of job to a professional.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also crucial to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will be. You should also brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. When the frame is clean and dry then you'll need order a piece of replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than the window, and then test it into the grooves.
You will have to apply 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 caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can fall or stick. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to contact the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that is caused by moisture getting trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes that are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This happens because the gap 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 cause a problem as it can no longer control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a new one. This will create a watertight seal and will be watertight.
There are companies in the field who claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that don't fully perform its function.
If you don't address the issue immediately, it could lead to mould, which can not only damage the window, but could also risk health issues for your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other issues within your home like damp or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This helps to improve their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may be depressurized and cause various problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing, but it could indicate that you should replace them. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has broken in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating bills It is therefore essential to fix it 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.
There will also be water beads on the outside of windows if your window seals aren't working. This is a clear indication that you should replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A seal that is blown is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. In addition, a blown seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. window repairs milton keynes can replace the entire unit.
