Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is a great way to ensure that they function effectively.
Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a stray pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a storm that is heavy can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair however, you don't have to have it replaced entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This can be messy work, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further cuts or damage. After removing the broken glass and cleaning the entire frame of the window to eliminate any sealant residue and debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure that your window is sealed and protected and save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window, or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out rain and ice.
Whatever the material you choose regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and assist it stick to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes which you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this issue, it is best to call the company that installed the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.
This process is a little tricky and requires special tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, but it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the required equipment. Utilizing these tools could be risky, so it is always best to leave this type of job to a professional.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you opt to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is crucial to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. When the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure your glass is properly installed. Once the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem you could try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company that installed your windows to help.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two panes that are separated by a space filled with argon for greater thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold air outside.
The seal could fail over time, and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to build up within it.
This is a natural process, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it could be a problem because it won't be able control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will influence 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 repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an watertight seal.
There are companies within the field which claim to cut holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog but we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass and leave you with a window that isn't functioning properly.
If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly, it could lead to mold, which could not only harm the window, but could also pose health risks to your family members. The condensation in the window could cause other issues with your property, such as damp or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.
One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. It is not a sign of a failure in the window however it could be a sign that you should replace them. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing is damaged in which case it should be replaced completely.
You should also look out for drafts coming through your double glazed windows. window repairs near me could be caused by an issue with the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating costs 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 determine 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 an indication that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move slightly in order to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. Over time, this special packaging material can become compacted. This will result in the seal being broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is a sign of failure and should be repaired as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.
