Double Glazed Window Repair

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

Over time condensation and misting may be detrimental to your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A unruly ball or a stone flying from your lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact, the insulated glass between the two panes is in good condition and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.

You'll first need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This is messy work and you'll need to be careful to stop any glass shards from falling on the floor or sliding out of the frame. Make sure you wear work gloves to shield your hands from injury and a cloth to cover the area surrounding the broken glass to avoid further damage or breaks. After removing the broken glass take care to clean the entire frame of the window to remove any sealant residue and debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth and even surface to install your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame then you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the seam where the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to protect and seal your window. It can also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are several options including clear tape which is more durable than regular tape and prevents further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your existing frame and will also keep snow and rain out as well.

Whatever material you use, it's important to press the glazier's points into the gap where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and help it to adhere to the frame. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and they are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing is susceptible to condensation issues. If you encounter this issue, it is best to contact the company that supplied the window. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that will cover the problems. 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 replace both panes.

It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can do this task and double glazing repair supply the equipment. It is best to leave the task to an expert. These tools could be dangerous.

If you do decide to do this yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any broken pieces of glass that could fly off during the process. It is important to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will be receiving the new window. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. After the frame has dried you'll have to purchase an additional piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than the existing window. Test-fit the glass into the grooves.

Based on the frames you have depending on your frames, you'll need to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in the right place. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be reinstalled.

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

Misted

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

The seal may become damaged over time and water can accumulate between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn to become cloudy. This happens because the sun's heat causes the space between the window panes, which causes water to vapourize.

This is a normal occurrence but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it is no longer able to control the temperature in the room, and allows the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice your double-glazed windows are turning misty, call in 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 far more streamlined than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves taking off the glass unit, washing it, then replacing it with a fresh one to create an airtight seal.

There are some companies in the field which claim to drill holes in your existing misted windows and inject chemicals into them that claim to eliminate condensation and fog however, we do not recommend this procedure. This method isn't just unsightly but could also damage the toughened glass and leave you with a window which doesn't function properly.

If you don't take care to fix the issue quickly it could result in mold, which could not only damage the window, but could also pose health risks to your loved ones. Moisture can also cause problems in your home, such as dampness or rot. In some instances, the window may need to be completely replaced.

Blown or Failed

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency, keeping heat in and cold out. Over time the gas may become depressurised and cause a variety of problems.

One of the most frequently encountered is condensation between the panes. It is not a sign of a failure in the window, but it could indicate that you need to reseal them. Condensation is also an indication of broken double glazing, which will need to be replaced.

You should also look out for draughts coming from your double-glazed windows. This could be due to an unsound seal or handle that is broken, or a broken lock. A draught is evident and can result in higher heating costs, so it is important to fix it sooner rather than later. Check the seals around the window frame by smelling cold air.

You will also notice water beads on the outside of windows if the window seals aren't performing as they should. This is a sign that you need to seal your double-glazed windows.

Your window frames are designed to move a little bit as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in the right place. However, with time, this particular packaging material will get compacted, and this could break the all-important seal. This allows air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.

A seal that is blown is a clear sign that your double glazing is damaged and should be repaired immediately. A damaged seal will stop your double glazing from fulfilling its primary purpose of keeping the cold out and warm in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other uncomfortable conditions. It is important to contact a double glazing repair specialist immediately if you discover a blowing seal on your double-glazed windows, since they could replace the entire unit.