Three Reasons Why Three Reasons Your Double Glazed Window Repair Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Double glazing windows fixed when they need to is a great method to ensure they are operating correctly.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. This can cause your double-glazed windows to be difficult to open or shut.
Broken Panes
A unruly ball, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a storm that is strong enough can break your double-pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can 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 shape, and you can fix your double-pane window with some DIY effort.
You'll first 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 off the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove 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, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to seal and protect your window, and will save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to select your glazing material. There are many options available including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and helps prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The advantage of this choice is that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out rain and snow too.
Regardless of the material you select, it is important to press glazier's points into the place where the putty joins the frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes which you roll out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be repaired by a professional who will fix both panes.
This process is a little complicated and requires special tools to take off the old pane and then install the new one, however it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the required equipment. Making use of these tools can be dangerous, however it is best to leave this type task to an expert.
If you decide to undertake this yourself, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that might fly away during the process. It is crucial to take out any putty or metal glazing 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 has dried you'll have to purchase an additional piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You'll need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure that your new glass is properly installed. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. Then the wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows may become difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and this can make them slide or become stuck. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens, but it may be better to seek advice from the company who installed your windows.
Misted
Misted Double Glazing is a window problem that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing consists of two glass panes that are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas for increased thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold outside air out.
The seal may fail over time, and water can accumulate between the glass panes and cause them to become misty. This happens because the space between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes, it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to fog.
We can replace a single sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a new one to make an watertight seal.
There are companies within the industry which claim to drill holes into your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this method. This is not only ugly, but it could also harm the toughened glass, leaving you with a window which doesn't function properly.
If you don't address the problem immediately, it could lead to mold, which could not only damage the window, but pose health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas can depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.
One of the most common is condensation between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing however it could indicate that you should reseal the windows. Condensation can be a sign your double glazing has broken in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.
Also, look out for draughts that are coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating costs It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.
You may also see water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals aren't working. This is an indication that you have to reseal the double glazed windows.
Your window frames are designed to move a bit in order to do to keep the glass sheets in place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to flow between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.
A blown seal is an obvious sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you spot a damaged window seal. They can replace the entire unit.