Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that reduces loss of heat during winter and keeps your home cooler in the summer. The ability to have your double-glazed windows repaired as needed is an excellent way to keep them working properly.

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

Broken Panes

A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers or an intense storm could shatter the double pane windows of your home and leave your home vulnerable to the elements. While a damaged window may be difficult to fix, double you don't have to replace it completely. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes remains in good shape and you can repair your double-pane windows with some DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to prevent glass shards from falling to the floor or slipping out of the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and an abrasive cloth around the damaged glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After removing the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to create an even surface for your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to seal and protect your window. It will also save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape, which is a bit more robust than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. This type of wrap has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also block out the elements like ice and rain.

Whatever material you select regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. These will keep the glass in place and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to contact the window manufacturer. Many have warranties and guarantees that cover these problems. 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 fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.

It's a difficult process that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can complete this task and provide the tools. Utilizing these tools could be dangerous, so it is always best to leave this type of job to an expert.

If you decide to do this yourself, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from any broken pieces of glass that may fly off during the process. It is also crucial to remove all putty and metal glazing points from the grooves that the new window will be. You will also want to brush the frame with wire and vacuum or wipe it with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply the caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that the new pane is secured in place. Once 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.

Double glazed windows can be difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and, as a result, they can slide or become stuck. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames using water and lubricating joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows to help.

Misted

If moisture is trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold outdoor air out.

This seal can fail over time, and water can accumulate between the glass panes which can cause them to turn misty. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the panes of windows, causing water to evaporate.

This is a normal thing to happen, but when it occurs between the window repairs panes it can cause a problem as it can no longer regulate the temperature of the room and will allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without having to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair involves removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This will result in an airtight seal again.

There are companies in the industry that claim to drill holes into your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them, which they claim will eliminate the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method is not only unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not fully perform its function.

If you don't address the issue immediately it could result in mould, which can not only harm the window, but could also cause health risks for your loved ones. The moisture in the window may also lead to other problems with your property like damp or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be completely replaced.

Blown or Failed

Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing warm air in and cold air out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing many problems.

Condensation between panes is one of the most common. It's not an indication of a window failure, but it could be a sign that you should reseal the panes. Condensation could be an indication that your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it will need to be replaced completely.

It is also important to look for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. This could be because of an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a broken lock. It is crucial to address this issue as soon as possible. A draught will cause you to spend more on heating. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to determine if you feel any cold air.

You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if your window seals are failing. This is an indication that you need to replace the seals on your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are made to move a bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in place. However, over time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will break the all-important seal. This will allow air to circulate between the panes and reduce the energy efficiency of your window.

Double glazing that has ruptured seals is a sign of failure and should be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal can also let moisture into your home, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.