Double Glazed Window Repair

Double glazing is an energy efficient investment that prevents heat loss in the winter and keeps your home cool in the summer. Restoring your double-glazed windows as needed is a great way to keep them in good working order.

Over time, your double-glazed windows can suffer from issues such as condensation and misting. Double glazed windows may become difficult to open and close.

Broken Panes

A rogue ball or a stone flying from your lawnmowers or a storm that is strong enough can break your double pane windows, leaving you home vulnerable to the elements. Although a cracked glass window is difficult to repair however, it does not need to be replaced. The insulated glass between two glass panes is still in good shape, so you can repair your double-paned window yourself.

First, you'll need to remove any broken glass from the frame. This can be a messy job and you'll need to be cautious to prevent any glass fragments from falling onto the floor or slipping out of the frame. Wear gloves for your hands, and place a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or replacement cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. It's important to sand rough areas of the frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glazing.

After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glass to the place where the damaged pane was removed. This is the best way to seal and protect your window, and will save you energy costs by preventing drafts and water from entering your home. Next, you will need to choose the right glazing material. There are several options available, including clear tape that is more durable than regular tape and will keep your window secure from further cracking, as well as glazing film that is similar to clear plastic wrap. This choice has the benefit that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out the elements like ice and rain.

Whatever material you choose regardless of the material you choose, it is essential to press glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets the frame. They will help keep the glass in place, and will help it stick to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

If you are experiencing issues with condensation, it's recommended to contact the window manufacturer. Many companies provide warranties and guarantees that provide coverage for the problems. Fogging or condensation on the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.

This procedure is a bit tricky and replacement requires special tools to remove the old pane and then install the new one, but it is possible to do this by an expert who will supply the necessary equipment. Using these tools can be dangerous, so it is always recommended to leave this kind of job to a professional.

Wear safety gloves and glasses if decide to do it yourself. You could be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is also essential to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming a damp cloth are also recommended. Once the frame has dried you'll have to purchase a replacement piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.

Depending on your frames, you will then need to apply a layer of silicone caulk to the grooves in order to ensure that your new pane is secure in position. After the silicone caulk is dried, you can smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.

Double-glazed windows can become difficult to open or close if the weather changes dramatically. Extreme temperatures can cause frames of double-glazed windows to expand or shrink, causing them to sag and stick. If this is the issue, you can try wiping down the frames with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it might be best to contact the company who installed your windows to help.

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing consists of two glass panes which are separated by an insulating space 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 and allows you to keep your temperature in your home comfortable.

This seal can fail over time, and moisture may build up between the panes of glass which can cause them to turn misty. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by sun, causing water vapour to build up within it.

This is a normal thing to happen but if it happens between the window panes it can cause a problem as it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room and allow the outside temperature to affect the indoor temperature. If you notice that your double-glazed windows are turning cloudy, contact the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

We can replace a single blown sealed unit without having to replace the entire window. This is less disruptive than a complete replacement. Our misty glass repair consists of removing and cleaning the glass before replacing it with a brand new one. This creates an airtight seal again.

There are companies within the industry who claim to cut holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them which claim to eliminate fog & condensation, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not only ugly, but it can also damage the toughened glass and result in windows that don't completely perform the function it was intended to.

If you don't fix the issue immediately it could result in mould, which could not only harm the window, but risk health issues for your loved ones. Moisture in the window can cause other problems within your home like damp or rot. In some instances it is possible to replace the entire window.

Failed or blown

Modern double-glazed windows come with two glass panes that have an inert gas or air between them. This improves their thermal efficiency by keeping the cold out and heat in. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing many problems.

Condensation in between the panes is among the most common. It is not a sign of a failure in the window however it could be a sign you should reseal the windows. Condensation is also a sign of a broken double glazing, which could require re-installation.

You should also look out for drafts coming through your double-glazed windows. It could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to more expensive heating bills, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. You can test the seals by feeling around the edges of your window frame to see if you feel any cold air.

Another indication that the seals on your windows have failed is when you start to see water dripping on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you need to reseal the double glazed windows.

Your window frames have been designed to move slightly, which is necessary to keep the glass sheets in their place. As time passes, this particular packaging material can be compressed. This can 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.

Double glazing that has broken a seal is an indication of a failure and should be repaired immediately. A blown seal will stop your double glazing performing its primary function, which is to keep the cold out and warm air in. Additionally, a blown seal will let your home's moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist when you notice a blowing upvc window repairs seal. They can repair or replace the entire unit.