Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter and helps to keep your home cooler during the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to keep them in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass between the two panes is in good shape and you can repair your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is an unpleasant task and you'll need to take care to prevent glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands, and a rag to protect the area surrounding the broken glass to prevent further damage or breaks. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or other debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to create an even surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the house. The next step is to choose the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape, which is a bit more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window safe from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles 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.
Whatever material you use it is important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will keep the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can roll out on the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. There are warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Fogging and condensation between 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 repair both panes.
It is a tricky process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and provide the tools. Using these tools can be dangerous, however it is best to leave this kind task to an expert.
If you do decide to do this yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that might fly away during the process. It is essential to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. It is also recommended to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame is dry and clean, you will need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it in the grooves.
Based on the frame you have, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is securely in the right place. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any needed adjustments. Then the wood molding can be reinstalled.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to become sagging and stick. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens however, it's better to seek help from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside which allows you to keep the temperature in your home comfortable.
In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This occurs because the sun's heat causes the gap between window panes, causing the water to evaporate.
It is a natural phenomenon however, if it happens between the panes of the window it could be a problem because it won't be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace a single blown sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete 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 in the field who claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which doesn't function properly.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could cause mould, which could not only cause damage to the window, but could also pose health risks to your loved ones. Moisture can also cause other issues in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause many issues.
Condensation between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not an indication of a window failure, but it could indicate that you need to reseal them. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be due to an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a damaged lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as possible. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you start 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 have been designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material can be compressed and cause the seal to break. This allows air to circulate between the panes, reducing the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A seal that is blown is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair immediately if you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.