Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired when needed is a great method to ensure they are operating properly.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.
Broken Panes
A rogue baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers, or even a severe storm can shatter the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Although a cracked glass window isn't easy to fix however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.
You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is messy work, and you'll want to be careful to stop 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 prevent further cuts or breakage. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. It is important to sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth surface for your new glazing.
After cleaning the frame and removing the dust, you can apply another layer of glass to the area where you removed the broken pane. This is the most effective way to ensure your window stays safe and sealed and help you save energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. 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 that is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out snow and ice.
No matter what material you decide to use it's essential to press the glaziers points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and they come in pre-made ropes that you roll over the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is best to call the company that supplied the window. A lot of windows come with warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. Condensation or fogging between the windows' panes is a sign that your seals are broken. Only a professional can resolve this issue by replacing both panes.
It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this job and provide the equipment. It is best to leave the work to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.
If you choose to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also recommended. After the frame is dry and clean, you will need to purchase a replacement glass which is 1/8 inch less in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.
Based on the frame you have, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secured in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.
If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them slide or become stuck. You can try wiping down the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens however it is better to consult the company that installed your windows.
Misunderstood
When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold outside air out.
As time passes, the seal may break and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, which causes them to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop within it.
This is a natural process however, if it happens between the panes of the window it can be a problem because it will no longer be able control the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.
We can replace the sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to create an watertight seal.
There are double glazing repairs Slough within the field that claim to drill holes in your windows with mist and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate fog & condensation but we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only unattractive, but it could cause damage to the toughened glass and result in windows that do not completely function.
If you don't address the issue immediately it could cause mold, which could not only cause damage to the window, but also risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture can also cause problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two glass panes with an inert or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurized, causing a variety of problems.
One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing, but it could indicate that you need to reseal the panes. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing that will require re-installation.
Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. This could be caused by an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught can be quite evident and can result in higher heating bills It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.
Your window frames have been designed to move slightly and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. In time, this special packaging material could become compressed. This will cause the seal to be broken. This allows air to move between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.
Double glazing that has blown seals is an indication of a failure and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing from fulfilling its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.