Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer. Double glazing windows repaired as needed is a great way to keep them working correctly.
Over time condensation and misting could be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball or a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable 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 glass panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-paned window on your own.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass take care to clean the entire frame of the window to remove any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to put in your new glass.
After the frame has been cleaned, you can apply a new layer of glass to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It can also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to select the material for your glazing. There are window repairs of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also keep out rain and ice.
Regardless of the material you pick, it is important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will replace both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous it is best to leave this type of work to a professional.
If you do decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is important to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame is clean and dry, you will need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You'll require a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. After the caulk is dry it is time to smooth it out and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows may be difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company that installed your windows for assistance.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that 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 air outside which allows you to keep your temperature in your home comfortable.
This seal can fail over time, and moisture can build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you when your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an watertight seal.
There are companies in the industry which claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not only unsightly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not fully perform the function it was intended to.
It is important to fix the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated, it can lead to mould growth that not only damages the window, but also poses health risks for your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In certain cases, the window may need to be completely replaced.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes, with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of issues.
Condensation between panes is among the most common. It's not an indication of a failure in the window, but it could indicate that you need to reseal the windows. Condensation can be a sign your double glazing has failed, in which case it will need to be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for draughts that are coming from the double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. It is crucial to address this problem as soon as you can. A draught will cause you to pay more for heating. Test the seals on the window frame by smelling cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will become compacted and this will crack the crucial seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which could cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist as soon you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.
