Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to ensure that they function correctly.
Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. This can cause your double glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a severe storm could break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed 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 between the two panes remains in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window with a bit of DIY effort.
To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to take care to prevent any glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands and a rag to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame then you can apply a new layer of glazing to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best method to ensure that your window is secure and sealed, and it will aid in reducing energy costs by preventing drafts and water from getting into your home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are many options available 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. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will keep out snow and rain too.
Whatever material you select regardless of the material you select, it is crucial to press glazier's facets into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will hold the newly-formed glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it is recommended to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Fogging or condensation between the windows' panes is a sign that the seals aren't working properly. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.
This procedure is a bit tricky and requires the use of specific tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, however it is possible to do this by an expert who will provide the necessary equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous, however, so it is always recommended to leave this kind task to professionals.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you decide to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the upvc window repair near me frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame has dried, you'll need to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
Based on the frames you have You will then have to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is secure in the right place. After the silicone caulk has dried, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.
Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can sag or stick. If this is the case, you can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows for help.
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 space typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This results in an airtight seal that keeps warm air in, and cold outdoor air out.
In 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 gets heated by the sun, causing water vapour to develop within it.
This is a normal occurrence, but when it occurs between the window panes, it could cause problems as it can no longer control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can repair the individual blown sealed unit without needing to replace the whole window, which is a lot less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, cleaning it, then replacing it with a new one to make an airtight seal.
There are some companies in the industry who claim to cut holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this method. This method is not only unattractive, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and leave you with windows that don't fully perform the function it was intended to.
If you don't address the problem immediately it could cause mould, which could not only damage the window, but risk health issues for your family members. The moisture in the window may cause other issues in your home, such as damp or rot. In some cases windows, they may have to be replaced completely.
Failed or Blown
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an inert or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. Over time, the gas can become depressurised and cause many problems.
One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should reseal them. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing has failed, in which case it should be replaced completely.
It is also important to look for draughts coming from the double-glazed windows. This could be due to a failure of the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is crucial to address this problem as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you begin to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you will need to seal your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in position. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compressed. This could result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A damaged seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a specialist in double glazing repair as soon as you spot a damaged seal in your double glazed windows, since they could replace the whole unit.