Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Double glazing windows fixed when they need to is a great way to keep them working effectively.
Over time condensation and misting could be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmower, or even a storm that is heavy could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.
You'll first 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 slipping off the frame. Use window repairs near me of gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent 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 frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
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 most effective way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also block out rain and ice.
Whatever the material you pick, it is important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to address these problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are broken. 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 old window. A professional can do this task and supply the tools. It is best to delegate the task to professionals. These tools can be risky.
If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that could fly off during the process. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame has dried it is time to order a replacement 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 have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your glass is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and cause them to sag or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them when this happens, but it may be better to seek advice from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold outside air out.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun heats the gap between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to fog.
We can replace a single sealed unit without the need to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a new one. This creates an airtight seal again.
There are some companies in the industry that claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them which they claim will eliminate the fog condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window which does not function properly.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can also cause problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In some cases the window might need to be completely replaced.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurized, causing various problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged, it can be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing has failed and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.
Also, look out for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time this special packaging material may become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable 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.
