Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows fixed when they need to is a great way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a heavy storm can shatter the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix but you don't need to replace it entirely. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window with a little DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be a messy job and you'll need to take care to prevent glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It is essential to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glazing.
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 best way to ensure that your window is safe and sealed and will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are many options available, 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 wrapping. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep snow and rain out as well.
No matter what material you use it's essential to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and assist it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is best to call the window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees to cover the issues. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this problem by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, but it can be accomplished by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, so it is always best to leave this type of work to a professional.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth is recommended. Once the frame is dry and clean then you'll need get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is securely installed. Once the caulk has dried and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to shrink or expand and cause them to fall or stick. If this is the case you could try wiping the frames down using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows to help.
Misted
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misty double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep your temperature at a comfortable level in your home.
Over time however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, which causes them to turn misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.
This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes, it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a fresh one to make an airtight seal.
Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not suggest this method. This is not only unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass leaving you with a window which isn't functioning properly.
It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated, it could lead to mould growth, which not only damages the window but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture can cause other issues within your home, like dampness or rot. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes that upvc window repairs have an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas may be depressurized and cause many issues.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not a sign of a window failing, but it could be a sign you should replace them. Condensation could also be a sign of a broken double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be because of a failed seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. A draught can be noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills It is therefore essential to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.
You will also notice water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The frames of your windows are designed to move a bit, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown an air seal is an indication of failure and should be repaired as soon as is possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary function of keeping the cold out and warm inside. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. You should call a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.