Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat in the winter months and keeps your home cool during summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working effectively.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball, 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. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two panes of glass is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.
To start, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. Be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Wear gloves for your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken pane, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to protect and seal your window, and will reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match your frame and will also keep out rain and snow as well.
Whatever material you choose it's essential to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be fixed by an expert who will repair both panes.
It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this task and provide the equipment. It is recommended to leave the work to professionals. These tools can be hazardous.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to remove any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secure in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to slide and become stuck. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the sun heats the gap between the panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
It is a natural phenomenon, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a new one. This will result in a seal that is watertight again.
There are companies within the field who claim to drill holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the fog condensation however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which does not function properly.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated, it could cause mould growth, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can also cause issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some cases, it may 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 helps to improve their thermal efficiency, keeping warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised and cause a variety of problems.
Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It's not an indication of a window failure however it could be a sign that you should replace the windows. Condensation can also be a sign that your double glazing has failed in which case it should be replaced completely.
Double-glazed windows can also create draughts. This could be because of the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is essential to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
You may also see water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is an indication that you have to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in position. However, over time, this special packaging material may get compacted, and this could break the all-important seal. This will allow air to flow between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. window repairs near me will prevent your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.
