Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may be 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 your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is messy work, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken piece and cleaning the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant or debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for your new glass.
After the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. There are several options 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 wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and can also shield your windows from snow and ice.
Regardless of the material you choose regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by an expert who will replace both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it can be accomplished by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, so it is always best to leave this kind of work to an expert.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you opt to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. It is also recommended to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in the right place. After the caulk is dry, you will need to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the issue you could try wiping the frames down with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside, allowing you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
As time passes, the seal will begin to break down and moisture can begin to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the sun's rays heat the space between the window panes, which causes the water to evaporate.
This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can replace a single sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.
Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows that have been misty to eliminate the condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and can result in windows that don't fully perform its function.
If you don't address the issue quickly it could cause mold, which could not only cause damage to the window, but also cause health risks for your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other issues in your home such as damp or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may be depressurized and cause various issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation that forms between the panes. Although it's a normal phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is damaged but it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing that will require re-installation.
It is also important to look for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to a failed seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills Therefore, it is essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of the window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is when you begin to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly in order to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could break the all-important seal. This will allow the air to move between the panes, decreasing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A damaged seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. In addition, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist when you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.
