Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.
Over time, your double glazed windows may experience problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmowers, or an intense storm could shatter the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair however, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Wear work gloves to protect your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to seal and protect your window, and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.
No matter what material you decide to use it is important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover the problems. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing the panes.
The process is difficult and requires the use of specific tools to remove the old one and replace the new one, but it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. It is recommended to leave the job to professionals. These tools could be risky.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose 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 in which the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth are also recommended. 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. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of frames to ensure your new glass is properly installed. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to slide and become stuck. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to ask the company who installed your windows for help.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside.
Over time however, this seal can break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the space between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a natural process however, if it happens between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair 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 removing the glass unit, washing it, and replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.
Some companies in the field claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We don't suggest this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window that does not fully function.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as you can, because if left untreated it can lead to mould growth which can not only damage the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture can also cause issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain situations it is possible 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. experienced improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize and cause a variety of problems.
Condensation in between the panes is among the most frequent. Although it's a normal event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is damaged but it could be an indication that you need to seal your windows. Condensation may 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 coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills It is therefore essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
There will also be water beads on the interior of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly in order to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, over time this special packaging material can become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This allows air to flow between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture into your home, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair expert when you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.
