Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is a great method to ensure they are operating effectively.
Over time condensation and misting could be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even an intense storm could shatter your double-pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is 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. Be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Wear gloves for your hands and use a rag around the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or 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 fresh layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way 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 your glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have, and it will keep out snow and rain as well.
No matter what material you use it is important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help hold the glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is best to call the company that provided the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by an expert who will repair both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this job and provide the tools. It is recommended to leave the work to an expert. These tools could be dangerous.
If you do decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to shield yourself from any broken glass pieces that might fly away during the process. It is also essential to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. After the frame has dried you'll have to purchase another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk to the grooves of your frames to ensure that your new glass is securely installed. Once the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.
Double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them fall or stick. Try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
If moisture is trapped 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 for improved thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air inside, and cold outdoor air out.
This seal can be damaged over time, and water can accumulate between the panes of glass and cause them to become to appear misty. This happens because the sun heats the space between the panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.
This is a normal process, but when it occurs between the window panes, it could cause problems as it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a new one to create a watertight seal again.
There are companies within the industry that claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which they say removes the condensation and fog 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 isn't functioning properly.
If Derby window repairs don't address the issue immediately it could cause mould, which could not only harm the window, but also cause health risks for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can cause other problems with your property, such as damp or rot. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time the gas will become depressurized, causing various issues.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most frequent. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing, it can be an indication that you have to seal your windows. Condensation could also be an indication of a damaged double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. 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 working. This is a sign that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a little bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has broken seals is a sign of failure and should be repaired as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blown window seal. They can replace the entire unit.