Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat in the winter months and helps keep your home cool in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever needed is a great way to ensure they remain in good condition.

Over time, your double glazed windows may suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A stray ball, a flying pebble from your lawnmowers or even a storm that is heavy can break the double panes of your windows, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged isn't easy to fix, it doesn't need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two panes of glass is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned windows yourself.

To begin, you'll need to take the broken glass out of the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to be cautious to prevent any glass shards from falling onto the floor Double Glazing or slipping out of the frame. Make sure to wear a pair of work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a cloth to cover the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken glass, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to create a smooth surface for the new glazing.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass to the seam 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 preventing drafts and water from entering the house. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are many options available including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also keep out rain and ice.

No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into that place where the putty joins your frame. They will help keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes, which you can roll out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be susceptible to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to call the company that supplied the window. Many have warranties and guarantees to address the issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by an expert who will replace 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 done by a professional who will provide the required equipment. It is best to delegate the work to professionals. These tools can be hazardous.

If you do decide to do it yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is essential to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You should also wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. When the frame is dry and clean then you'll need get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than the window, and then test it in the grooves.

Based on the frame you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk to the grooves to ensure that the new pane is secure in position. Once the silicone caulk has dried and cured, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.

Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or contract, which causes them to become sagging and stick. If this is the problem try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to ask the company who installed your windows for help.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that develops when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two panes, which are separated by a space that is filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air in, and cold outdoor air out.

In time, however, this seal may break and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to turn misty. This happens because the gap between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to form within it.

This is a natural occurrence, but if it occurs between the panes of the window it could cause problems because it won't be able to regulate the temperature within the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. Northfield Glass can help you in the event that your double-glazed windows begin to mist.

We can replace a single sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the unit of glass, then replacing it with a new one. This will create a seal that is watertight again.

Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into misted windows to remove the condensation and fog. We do not suggest this method. This is not only unsightly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in a window that does not fully function.

It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as you can, as if untreated it can cause mould growth that not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems within your home such as damp or rot. In certain situations it might be necessary to replace the entire window.

Blown or Failed

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. Over time, this gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of problems.

One of the most frequently encountered is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not a sign of a window failure, but it could indicate that you should replace them. Condensation could be a sign your double glazing has failed in which case it will need to be replaced completely.

It is also important to look for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. It could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as possible. 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 whether you feel cold air.

There will also be water beads on the inside of windows if your window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a good indicator that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.

Your window frames are designed to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compressed. This can cause the seal to become broken. This will allow the air to flow between the panes, reducing your window's energy efficiency.

A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary function that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blowing window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.