15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Overlook Double Glazed Window Repair
Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when necessary is a great way to keep them in good working order.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may suffer from problems like condensation and misting. This could cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue, a flying stone from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes remains in good shape, and you can fix your double-pane windows with a little DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This will be a messy job, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear gloves for your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to seal and protect your window, and will save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are several options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match the frame of your window and will also keep out rain and ice.
Whatever material you decide to use it is important to press the glaziers points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. They will help hold the new glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact your window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation on the windows' panes is a sign that the seals are damaged. Only an expert can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the required equipment. It is recommended to leave the task to an expert. These tools can be hazardous.
If you do decide to do it yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is important to take out all metal or putty points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame is dry it is time to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have, you will then need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is securely in the right place. Once the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and cause them to sag or stick. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case, but it may be better to seek help from the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture can begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form within it.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the windows' panes it could cause problems because it won't be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside of the window will affect the temperature indoors. 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 the need to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend this method. This method is not only unsightly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not fully function.
If you don't address the problem immediately it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but cause health risks for your loved ones. Moisture can cause other issues in your home, including dampness or rot. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the entire window.
Failed or Blown
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing a variety of issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged but it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation can also be a sign of a broken double glazing, which could need to be replaced.
You should also look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. This could be caused by a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught is noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills Therefore, it is essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
window repairs will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is a clear indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in place. In time, this special packaging material may become compacted. This can result in the seal being broken. This allows air to flow between the panes, and decrease the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown seals is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm inside. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.