Double Glazed Window Repair
Double glazing is an excellent energy efficient investment that prevents loss of heat in winter months and helps keep your home cooler in the summer. Repairing your double-glazed windows when required is a great method to ensure they remain in good condition.
Over time condensation and misting may affect your double-glazed windows. Double glazed windows can be 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. While a damaged glass window isn't easy to fix but it doesn't have to be replaced. In fact the insulated glass that is between the two panes is in good condition, and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.
To begin, you'll need take the broken glass out of the frame. You'll need to be careful to keep glass shards from falling to the floor or falling off the frame. Use work gloves to protect you hands, and a rag to cover the broken glass area to prevent any further injury or cuts. After taking out the broken glass, clean the frame of the window thoroughly, removing any sealant or debris. Sand rough areas of the window frame to create a smooth surface to install your new window.
After cleaning the frame and dried, you can apply a fresh layer of glazing to the place in which the broken pane was removed. This is the most effective method to seal and protect your window. It will also save you money by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. The next step is to choose your glazing material. Some options include clear tape which is more robust than regular tape and will help keep your window from further cracking, as well as glazing film that resembles clear plastic wrap. The benefit of this type of material is that it can be painted over to match your frame, and it will keep out snow and rain as well.
Whatever material you choose, it's important to press the glazier's points into the seam where the putty meets your frame. These will hold the new glass in place and aid it to adhere to the frame. Hardware stores sell glazier's point ropes that can be rolled out onto the frame rabbets.
Condensation
Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues. If you experience this problem it is recommended to contact the company that provided the window. There are warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Condensation and fogging between panes of glass is an obvious indication that the seals between your windows are damaged and can only be fixed by an expert who will fix both panes.
It's a complicated procedure that requires specialized tools to remove and replace the window. A professional can handle this job and provide the tools. Using these tools can be dangerous, however it is best to leave this kind of job to an expert.
Wear safety gloves and glasses if you choose to do it yourself. You may be exposed to flying glass fragments. It is important to take out any putty or metal glazing points from the grooves that will hold the new window. Wire-brushing the frame, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is also recommended. After the frame has dried, you'll need to order another piece of glass that's 1/8" shorter in both directions than your existing window. Make sure the glass fits into the grooves.
You will need to apply a layer silicone caulk in the grooves of your frames to ensure the glass you are installing is secure in its installation. After the caulk dries and is dry, you must smooth it out and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.
If the weather abruptly changes, double-glazed windows could be difficult to open and close. Extreme temperatures can cause frames to expand or shrink and cause them to sag or stick. If this is the problem you could try wiping the frames down with water and then lubricating the joints. However, it may be best to ask the company that installed your windows to help.
Misunderstood
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 consists of two panes of glass which are separated by an insulating area, typically filled with argon gas for improved thermal efficiency. double glazing repairs Marlow creates an airtight sealing that keeps warm air in, and cold air outside.
The seal may become damaged over time and moisture may build up between the panes of glass, causing them to appear misty. This occurs because the sun heats the space between the panes of windows, causing water to vapourize.
This is a natural process however if it occurs between the panes of the window it can be a problem since it will no longer be able control the temperature inside the room. Instead, the temperature outside the window will affect the temperature inside. If you notice that your double-glazed windows have become blurred, call the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.
We can replace the sealed blown unit without having to replace the entire window which is less disruptive than a total replacement. Our misty window repair involves removing the glass unit, washing it, and replacing it with a new one to create an airtight seal.
There are companies within the field that claim to drill holes in your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them, which they say removes the condensation and fog, however, we do not recommend this procedure. This is not just unattractive, but it could also harm the toughened glass and can result in windows that do not fully perform its function.
It is important to fix the issue as soon as possible, as left untreated it can result in the growth of mould, which not only damages the window, but also poses health risks for your family members. Moisture in the window can cause other issues in your home, such as damp or rot. In some cases it is possible to replace the entire window.
Blown or Failed
Modern double-glazed windows feature two glass panes with an inert gas or air in between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and the cold out. As time passes, the gas can become depressurized, causing many problems.
Condensation in between the panes is one of the most common. While it is a natural occurrence and doesn't mean that your window is damaged however it could be a sign that you need to seal your windows. Condensation can be an indication that your double glazing is damaged and, in that case, it's time to get it replaced completely.
You should also look out for draughts coming from your double glazed windows. This could be due to the seal being damaged or a damaged handle or lock. A draught can be quite noticeable and will lead to higher heating bills, so it is important that you get this fixed sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling the cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is when you start to notice water beading on the inside of your windows. This is a sign that you should re-seal your double glazed windows.
Your window frames are made to move slightly as they have to do to keep the glass sheets in their place. However, with time, this special packaging material may become compacted and this will cause the seal to break. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, decreasing your window's energy efficiency.
A blown seal is a clear indication that your double glazing is damaged and must be fixed as soon as possible. A damaged seal can stop your double glazing performing its primary purpose, which is to keep cold air out and warm air in. Furthermore, a blow-off seal can let moisture in, which can result in mold and other unpleasant conditions. It is recommended to contact a double glazing repair specialist as soon as you spot a damaged seal in your double-glazed windows, as they can replace the whole unit.