Double Glazed Window Repair

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

Over time, your double glazed windows can suffer from issues like condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become 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. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair, it doesn't need to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is still in good condition and you can repair your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.

To begin, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. This is messy work and you'll need to be careful to stop glass shards from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Wear 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 pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any remaining sealant and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to install your new window.

Once the frame is cleaned and dried, you can apply a new layer of glass to the area where the broken pane was removed. This is the best way to protect and seal your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to choose the right glazing material. There are a variety of options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window, or glazing film which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame, and will also block out snow and ice.

No matter what material you choose, it's important to press the glaziers points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out on the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that installed the window. There are warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is a clear sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and can only be fixed by a professional who will repair both panes.

The process is complicated and requires the use of specific tools to remove the old pane and install the new one, however it can be accomplished by an expert who will provide the required equipment. It is best to leave the task to a professional. These tools can be hazardous.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if you opt to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is crucial to remove all metal or putty points from the grooves that will receive the new window. You should also brush the frame with wire, and then vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. After the frame has dried, you'll need to order another piece of glass that is 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.

You will require a layer of silicone caulk into the grooves of frames to ensure your glass is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries it is time to smooth it and make any adjustments needed. The wood molding can then be put back in place.

Double-glazed windows can be difficult to open and close when the weather is extremely changing. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them fall or stick. You can try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens, but it may be better to consult the company who installed your windows.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a window issue that is caused by moisture getting 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 for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm air inside and cold air outside which allows you to keep the temperature at a comfortable level in your home.

The seal may become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the glass panes which can cause them to turn to appear misty. This occurs because the sun heats the gap between window panes, which causes water to evaporate.

This is a normal thing to happen however, if 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 influence the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blow sealed unit, without the need to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass, cleaning it, and then replacing it with a fresh one to make a watertight seal again.

Certain companies in the business claim to inject chemicals through holes into windows with mist to remove the fog and condensation. We do not recommend using this method. This is not only unattractive, but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which does not function properly.

It is crucial to resolve the issue as quickly 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 in the window replacement can cause other issues in your home like damp or rot. In some cases the window might need to be replaced entirely.

Failed or blown

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

One of the most common is condensation occurring between the panes. It's not an indication of a window failing however it could be a sign you should replace them. Condensation is also an indication of a damaged double glazing that will require re-installation.

You should also look out for drafts coming through your double-glazed windows. It could be due to a failure of the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating costs Therefore, it is essential to fix it sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window replacement frame to see whether you feel cold air.

Another sign that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a clear indication that you need to re-seal your double glazed windows.

The window frames you have purchased were designed to move a bit and this is essential to keep the glass sheets in their place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This could result in the seal being broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.

A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and needs to be fixed immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm in. A blown seal can also let moisture in your home, which could result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair expert immediately if you discover a blowing seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the entire unit.