Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to keep them in good condition.
Over time, your double-glazed windows may experience issues like condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A ball that is rogue or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or falling out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent further damage or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glass.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It will also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material 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 decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into that place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and aid it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. There are warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will fix both panes.
It is a tricky procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this job and provide the equipment. Making use of these tools can be risky, so it is always best to leave this kind task to a professional.
If you do decide to do it yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also crucial to carefully remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is recommended. When the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window that you have and then fit it into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is securely in position. After the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open or close. double glazing repairs Southend can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them slide or become stuck. If this is the case try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company who installed your windows to help.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.
Over time however, this seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature inside. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become cloudy, contact 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 more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass and replacing it with a brand new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.
Some companies in the field claim that they can inject chemicals through holes into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We don't recommend this method. This is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't take care to fix the problem immediately it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems with your property like 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 that have an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. As time passes the gas will be depressurized and cause various issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failure however it could be a sign you need to reseal them. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing that will require a re-installation.
Double-glazed windows can also create drafts. It could be due to a failed seal or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. It is important to fix this problem as soon as possible. A draft will force you to spend more on heating. Test the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.
Another sign that your window seals have failed is when you begin to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will be compressed and crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has blown a seal is an indication of a failure and needs to be repaired as soon as is possible. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal can let moisture in, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a specialist in double glazing repair immediately if you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.