Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an excellent investment in energy efficiency. It helps prevent loss of heat during winter months and keeps your home cool in summer. Having your double glazed windows repaired when needed is a great way to ensure that they function properly.

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

Broken Panes

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

First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or falling out of the frame. Use a pair of work gloves to protect your hands, and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly to remove any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the frame to create a smooth and even surface to install 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 way to protect and seal your window. It will also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to select the glazing material. There are a variety of options, including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and can keep your window from further cracking, and 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 snow and ice.

No matter what material you choose it is important to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will keep the glass in place, and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes, which you can roll out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you have a problem with condensation, it's best to call your window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that cover these issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are broken and can only be repaired by an expert who will repair both panes.

It's a difficult procedure 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 job to a professional. These tools can be risky.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is essential to remove 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 are also recommended. Once the frame is clean and dry, you will need to purchase a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch shorter in each direction than your window, and then test it into the grooves.

Depending on your frames depending on your frames, you'll need to apply the caulk to the grooves 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 be reinstalled.

If the weather suddenly changes, double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to sag and stick. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them if this is the case however, it's better to seek advice from the company that installed your windows.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes which are separated by a space that is filled with argon for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold air outside.

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

This is a normal process but if it happens between the window panes, it can be a problem since it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to influence the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace the blow-sealed unit without having to replace the entire window and is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to make a watertight seal again.

Some companies in the industry claim to inject chemicals through holes drilled into windows that have been misty to eliminate the fog and condensation. We do not recommend this method. This is not just unsightly, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can leave you with windows that do not completely perform the function it was intended to.

It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, as left untreated, it can lead to mould growth that not only damages the window, but also poses health risks for your family. Moisture can also cause problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.

Blown or failed

Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes with an inert gas or air between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping warm air in and cold air out. Over time, the gas can be depressurized and cause a variety of issues.

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

Double-glazed windows can also cause drafts. It could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle lock. It is essential to fix this problem as soon as you can. A draft can cause you to spend more on heating. Check the seals around the window frame by feeling the cold air.

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

Your window frames are designed to move slightly and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could be compressed. This will cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, and decrease the efficiency of your window.

A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal stops your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture into your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazed window repairs glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can fix the entire unit.