Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. It stops heat loss during the winter months and keeps your home cool during summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows whenever required is a great method to ensure they remain 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 rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers, or a strong storm can shatter the double pane windows of your home which can expose your home to the elements. While a cracked window can be difficult to repair however, you don't have to replace it completely. The insulated glass that is between two glass panes is in good condition, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is a messy job, and you'll want to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear gloves to shield your hands from injury and a rag to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After you have removed the broken glass clean the frame of the window thoroughly to get rid of any sealant or other debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.

Once the frame is cleaned then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the area where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to protect and seal your window. It can also reduce your energy bills by preventing water and drafts from entering your home. The next step is to choose the material for your glazing. Some options include clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, and glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted to match your frame, and it will keep out snow and rain as well.

Whatever material you use, it's important to press the glaziers points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and assist it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores carry glazier's point ropes that you can roll out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. Many companies offer warranties and guarantees that will cover these issues. Condensation and fogging in the panes of glass is an obvious sign that the seals between your windows have been damaged and must be repaired by a professional who will repair both panes.

It is a tricky procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can handle this task and supply the tools. It is best to delegate the job to professionals. These tools could be dangerous.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if choose to do it yourself. You could be exposed to glass fragments flying around. It is important to take out all putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will receive the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is recommended. Once the frame has dried, you'll need to order an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk into the grooves of your frames to ensure your new glass is properly installed. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding will then be reinstalled.

If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows may be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause the frames to expand or shrink and this can make them sag or stick. If this is the problem try wiping the frames with water and lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to contact the company who installed your windows for help.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes, it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is comprised of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for better thermal efficiency. This creates an airtight seal that keeps warm room air inside and cold outdoor air outside which allows you to keep your temperature in your home comfortable.

As time passes, the seal can break down and moisture will start to build up between the window panes, causing them to become cloudy. This happens because the gap between the panes gets heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to develop in it.

This is a natural occurrence however if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem because it won't be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit, without needing to replace the entire window repairs near me. This is far less disruptive than a full replacement. Our misty glass repair involves taking off and cleaning the glass unit, then replacing it with a brand new one. This creates a seal that is watertight again.

There are some 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 method. This method isn't just ugly, but it could also harm your toughened glass leaving you with a window which does not function properly.

If you don't address the issue immediately it could cause mould, which could not only damage the window, but also cause health risks for your loved ones. The condensation in the window could cause other issues with your property such as damp or rot. In some instances the window might need to be replaced completely.

Blown or Failed

Modern double glazed windows have two glass panes, with an inert gas or air in between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, the gas can depressurize and cause a variety of issues.

Condensation between panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is failing but it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can also be an indication of broken double glazing that will require re-installation.

You should also look out for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. It could be due to an unsound seal or a damaged handle or a damaged lock. A draught can be noticeable and will lead to higher heating costs It is therefore essential that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by rubbing around the edges of the window frame to see whether you feel cold air.

Another sign that your window seals are failing 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.

The frames of your windows are designed to move slightly, as they need to do to keep the glass sheets in place. As time passes, this particular packaging material could become compacted. This will result in the seal being broken. This will allow air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce the efficiency of your window's energy consumption.

A blown seal is a clear sign that your double glazing has failed and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose that is to keep the cold out and warm air in. A blown seal could let moisture in your home, which could lead to mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double glazing expert immediately you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.