Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is a great investment in energy efficiency. It prevents loss of heat during winter months and helps to keep your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when needed is a great way to ensure they are in good working order.

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

Broken Panes

A ball that is rogue, a flying stone from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter your double pane windows which can expose your home to the elements. Even though a glass window that has been damaged is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is still in good shape and you can fix your double-pane windows with a bit of DIY effort.

First, you'll need to take any broken glass from the frame. This can be messy work and you'll need to take care to prevent any glass fragments from falling on the floor or falling out of the frame. Wear gloves for your hands, and place a rag around the broken glass to avoid further cuts or damage. After removing the broken pane take care to clean the entire frame of the window to eliminate any remaining sealant and debris. It is important to smooth rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.

Once the frame is cleaned, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It can also save you money by preventing water and drafts from entering the home. The next step is to select your glazing material. There are many options available such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this option is that it can be painted to match your frame, and it will keep snow and rain out as well.

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

Condensation

If you're experiencing problems with condensation, it is best to contact the window manufacturer. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover the issues. Fogging and condensation between panes of glass is a clear indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be repaired by an expert who will repair both panes.

The process is tricky and requires special tools to take off the old one and replace the new one, but it is possible to do this by a professional who will provide the necessary equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, however it is best to leave this kind of job to a professional.

If you choose to do this yourself, ensure you wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that may fly off during the process. It is crucial to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. You will also want to wire-brush the frame and vacuum or wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Once the frame has dried it is time to order a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

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

Double glazed windows can become difficult to open or close in the event of extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to shrink or expand and, as a result, they can fall or stick. Try wiping the frames with water and lubricating them when this happens however it is better to consult the company who installed your windows.

Misted

Misted Double Glazing is a problem with windows that occurs when moisture gets trapped between the glass panes of double glazed windows. Double glazing is comprised of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space typically filled with argon gas to provide improved thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm air inside, and cold outside air out.

Over time however, this seal will begin to break down and moisture will start to accumulate between the window panes, causing them to become misty. This happens because the sun's rays heat the gap between panes of windows, causing the water to evaporate.

This is a normal thing to happen however, if it occurs 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 turning misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

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

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

If you don't take care to fix the issue immediately it could cause mould, which could not only harm the window, but pose health risks to your loved ones. Moisture can cause other problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire window.

Failed or blown

Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes that have an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, allowing the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurised which can lead to a range of problems.

One of the most frequent is condensation occurring between the panes. Although it's a normal occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing but it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation could also be a sign of a broken double glazing, which will require a re-installation.

Double-glazed windows may also cause drafts. It could be due to an issue with the seal or a broken handle or lock. A draught can be obvious and result in higher heating costs, so it is important to get it fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of your window frame to see whether you feel cold air.

You may also see water beads on the inside of windows if the window seals are failing. This is an indication that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames have been designed to move a bit in order to keep the glass sheets in their place. Over time, this special packaging material can be compressed. This can cause the seal to become broken. This allows air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.

A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A damaged seal could let moisture in your home, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Call a double glazing specialist immediately you spot a damaged window seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.