Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired when needed is a great method to ensure they are operating effectively.

Over time condensation and misting could affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows may be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A stray baseball or Window Repair a stray pebble from your lawnmowers, window repair or even a heavy storm can shatter 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 completely. The insulated glass between two glass panes is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned window on your own.

To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. Be careful to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect your hands, and place an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass to avoid further damage or cuts. After removing the broken piece take care to clean the entire frame of the window to remove any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface on which to install 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 keep your window secure and sealed and will aid in reducing energy costs by stopping drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and can keep your window safe from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match your frame, and it will keep out snow and rain as well.

Whatever material you decide to use it is important to press the glazier's points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the glass in place and aid in adhering to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can use on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues and if you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to address these problems. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals aren't working properly. Only an expert can fix this problem by replacing the panes.

It's a complicated process that requires special tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, so it is always best to leave this type of job to professionals.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is important to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is recommended. After the frame has dried it is time to order a replacement piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

You will require a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is properly installed. After the silicone caulk is dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.

If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures may cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, causing them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it might be a good idea to call the company who installed your windows to help.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in 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 for increased thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air outside and allows you to keep your temperature comfortable in your home.

This seal can become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the glass panes, causing them misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.

This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs between the window panes it could cause problems as it is no longer able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. Northfield Glass can help you if your double-glazed windows start to mist.

We can repair the individual sealed blown unit without having to replace the whole window and is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a new one to create an watertight seal.

There are companies within the field which claim to drill holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which claim to eliminate condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage your toughened glass, leaving you with a window that does not function properly.

If you don't address the issue quickly, it could lead to mould, which can not only damage the window, but could also pose health risks to your family members. The condensation in the window could also lead to other problems with your property such as damp or rot. In certain cases, the window may need to be replaced completely.

Failed or Blown

Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas may depressurize which can lead to a range of issues.

Condensation between the panes is one of the most frequent. It's not a sign of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should reseal the windows. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing that will require a re-installation.

Double-glazed windows may also cause draughts. This could be because of an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. It is important to fix this issue as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to pay more for heating. You can test the seals by placing your finger around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.

Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you begin to notice water beads on the inside of your windows. This is an indication that you have to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This will allow the air to flow between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.

A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.