Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that reduces heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows repaired when needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.
Over time your double glazed windows may experience issues such as condensation and misting. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or close.
Broken Panes
A rogue ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix however, you don't have to replace it completely. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes remains in good condition and you can repair your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands and use an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best method to protect and seal your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window safe from further cracking, as well as glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will keep out snow and rain too.
Whatever material you choose it's essential to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that you can use onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to call your window manufacturer. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by an expert who will replace both panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, however it can be done by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous it is recommended to leave this kind of work to a professional.
Wear safety glasses and gloves if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves in which the new window will be. 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 which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
You'll have to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is properly installed. After the caulk is dry and is dry, you must smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding will then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to sag and stick. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company that installed your windows for help.
Misted
If moisture is trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas to provide better thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.
Over time however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop in it.
This is a normal process however, if it occurs between the window panes, it could cause problems as it can no longer control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double glazed windows are becoming 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 less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and replacing it with a fresh one to make an watertight seal.
There are companies in the industry that claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate fog & condensation however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which doesn't function properly.
If you don't address the issue quickly, it could lead to mould, which can not only harm the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. window repairs Rochdale can also cause problems in your home, like dampness or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised, leading to a number of issues.
One of the most frequent is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural phenomenon, it doesn't mean your window is failing but it could be an indication that you need to seal your windows. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing that will need to be replaced.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from the double-glazed windows. This could be because of the seal being damaged or handle that is broken, or a damaged lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating costs It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that your window seals have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a good indicator that you should seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, over time this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow air to move between the panes, decreasing the energy efficiency of your window.
Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is a sign of failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.