Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that stops loss of heat in winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent method to ensure they are operating correctly.

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

Broken Panes

A stray baseball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy could break the double panes of your windows and expose your home to the elements. Although a window that is cracked can be difficult to fix, you don't have to replace it entirely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-paned window yourself.

To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. This is a messy job, and you'll want to take care to prevent any glass shards from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further cuts or breakage. After removing the broken piece and cleaning the entire frame of the window doctor near me to remove any remaining sealant or debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure an even surface for your new glass.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to seal and protect your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. There are a variety of options, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and will help keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted over to match the frame you have and will also keep out rain and snow too.

No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into the place where the putty joins your frame. These will hold the glass in place, and aid in adhering to the frame. Glazier's points can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes which you roll out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to call the window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover these problems. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.

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

If you decide to undertake this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is essential to remove all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth are also recommended. When the frame is clean and dry, you will need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it in the grooves.

You will have to apply a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the silicone caulk has dried you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can then be put back in place.

If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and this can make them sag or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them in the event that this happens however it is better to consult the company who installed your windows.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space, typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air inside, and cold air outside.

In time, however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will begin to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form in it.

This is a normal thing to happen, but when it occurs between the window panes, it could cause problems as it will no longer be able to regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blow sealed unit without needing to replace the entire window. This is much less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a new one. This creates a watertight seal again.

Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the condensation and fog. We don't suggest this method. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass leaving you with a window that doesn't function properly.

It is important to fix the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can cause mould growth which can not only damage the window but also poses health risks to your family members. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In certain situations it is possible to replace the entire window.

Blown or Failed

Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. Over time, the gas may depressurize and cause a variety of problems.

One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. Although it's a normal event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window has failed however it could be a sign that you need to re-seal your windows. Condensation may be an indication that your double glazing has broken, in which case it's time to get it replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows can also cause draughts. This could be due to an unsound seal, a broken handle, or a damaged lock. It is essential to fix the issue as quickly as you can. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling for cold air.

You may also see water beads on the outside of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is an indication that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.

The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in place. However, with time, this special packaging material can get compacted, and this could crack the crucial seal. This allows air to flow between the panes, reducing the energy efficiency of your window.

Double glazing that has ruptured an air seal is a sign of failure and needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary job of keeping the cold out and warm in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a specialist in double glazing repair when you spot a damaged seal on your double-glazed windows, as they are able to replace the whole unit.