Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired as needed is a great method to ensure they are operating properly.
Over time your double glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. This can be a messy job and you'll need to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or damage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface to install your new window.
Once the frame is cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glazing to the place where the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to ensure that your window is sealed and protected, and it will save you money by stopping drafts and water from getting into your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are several options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep out rain and snow too.
No matter what material you decide to use it is important to press the glaziers points into that gap where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and help it stick to the frame. You can find glazier's points in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to call the window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover the issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by an expert who will repair both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can complete this task and provide the tools. It is recommended to leave the task to a professional. These tools can be dangerous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is essential to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that the glass you are installing is securely installed. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to sag and stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold air outside, allowing you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
As time passes, the seal can break down and moisture can begin to build up between the windows, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form in it.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, and replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
Certain companies in the business claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We don't recommend using this method. This method isn't just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
If you don't address the problem immediately it could cause mold, which could not only damage the window, but cause health risks for your family members. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, the window may need to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can depressurize, leading to a number of issues.
One of the most common is condensation that forms between the panes. Although it's a normal event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is damaged, it can be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged in which case it should be replaced completely.
You should also look out for drafts coming through the double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.
You may also see water beads on the interior of windows when your window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This allows air to move between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A blown seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which can lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert as soon you notice a blown window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.
