Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. Having your double glazed windows fixed when they need to is an excellent way to keep them working effectively.
Over time condensation and misting could impact your double-glazed windows. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window using some DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to keep glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding off the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass to avoid any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to put in your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by keeping water and drafts from entering the house. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will also keep snow and rain out too.
Regardless of the material you choose regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is best to call the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to provide coverage for these issues. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this job and provide the equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, however, so it is always best to leave this type of job to an expert.
If you choose to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is crucial to take out all 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 it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Check the glass's fit into the grooves.
You'll require a layer of silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is properly installed. Once the caulk has dried and is dry, you must smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to slide and become stuck. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case, but it may be better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
The seal may become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop in it.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.
We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.
Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not recommend this method. This is not only unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window which doesn't function properly.
It is essential to address the problem as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it could result in the growth of mould that not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In window repairs , it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes the gas may become depressurized, causing many issues.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window has failed however it could be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing, which will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be because of the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to determine whether you feel cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you start to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a little bit, as they need to do in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could cause the seal to break. This allows air to flow between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you spot a damaged seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.
