Double Glazed Window Repair

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

Over time, condensation and misting can affect 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 lawnmower or even a storm that is strong enough can break the double pane windows of your home 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 in good shape and you can fix your double-pane window using a little DIY effort.

To start, you'll need to remove the broken glass from the frame. You'll need to be cautious to avoid any glass shards falling to the floor or slipping off the frame. Use a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a cloth to protect the area around the broken glass to prevent further breakage or cuts. After removing the broken piece, carefully clean the entire frame of the window to get rid of any sealant residue and debris. It's important to sand rough areas of your frame to ensure a smooth surface for your new glass.

After cleaning the frame, you can apply another layer of glass on the seam where you removed the broken pane. This is the best method to protect and seal your window. It can also reduce your energy bills by preventing drafts and water from entering the home. Next, you will need to choose your glazing material. There are a variety of options such as clear tape, which is more durable than regular tape, and can prevent further cracking of your window or glazing film, which is similar to clear plastic wrapping. This option has the advantage that it can be painted to match your frame and will also keep out rain and ice.

Whatever material you select, it is important 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. The glazier's point can be found in hardware stores, and are available in pre-made ropes that you simply roll out onto the frame rabbets.

Condensation

Double glazing can be prone to condensation issues and if you encounter this issue, it is recommended to contact the company that supplied the window. There are warranties and guarantees to address these issues. Fogging or condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that your seals are broken. Only a professional can fix this issue by replacing both panes.

It's a difficult procedure that requires special tools to remove and replace the old window. A professional can do this task and supply the tools. Using these tools can be risky, so it is always best to leave this type of work to a professional.

If you choose to undertake this yourself, make sure you wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from broken glass pieces that might fly away during the process. It is also crucial to remove all the putty and metal glazing points from the grooves where the new window will go. Wire-brushing the frame or vacuuming it with a damp cloth is also recommended. Once the frame is dry and clean you'll need to get a replacement glass that is 1/8 inch smaller in each direction than your existing window and test-fit it into the grooves.

Based on the frame you have You will then have to apply a thin layer of silicone caulk on the grooves to ensure that your new pane is secured in position. Once the caulk has dried it is time to smooth it and make any necessary adjustments. The wood molding can be put back in place.

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

Misted

When moisture gets trapped in between the glass panes it can cause misted double glazing. Double glazing is made up of two panes that are separated by a gap filled with argon to improve thermal efficiency. This creates a airtight seal that keeps warm indoor air in, and cold air outside.

This seal can be damaged over time, and water can accumulate between the glass panes and cause them to become to become cloudy. This happens because the space between the panes is heated by the sun, which causes water vapour to form in it.

It is a natural phenomenon, but if it occurs between the windows' panes it can be a problem since it will no longer be able to control the temperature in the room. Instead the temperature outside the window will influence the temperature indoors. If you notice your double-glazed windows have become misty, call in the experts at Northfield Glass to investigate.

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

There are companies in the industry that claim to drill holes into your windows that are misting and inject chemicals into them that they claim will eliminate the fog & condensation, however, we don't recommend this method. This method is not just unattractive, but could also damage your toughened glass leaving you with a window that isn't functioning properly.

It is important to fix the problem as soon as you can, because if left untreated, it could lead to mould growth that not only damages the window, but can also pose health risks to your family members. Moisture in the window can also lead to other problems in your home, such as damp or rot. In some cases the upvc window repairs might need to be replaced entirely.

Failed or Blown

Double-glazed windows are comprised of two panes of glass with an air or inert between them. This increases their thermal efficiency by keeping heat in and cold out. Over time, this gas may depressurize, leading to a number of problems.

One of the most common is condensation between the panes. While it is a natural event, it doesn't necessarily mean that your window is damaged however it could be an indication that you have to re-seal your windows. Condensation may also be a sign that your double glazing is damaged in which case it will need to be replaced completely.

Double-glazed windows can also cause drafts. This could be due to an issue with the seal or a damaged handle or lock. A draught is obvious and result in higher heating bills It is therefore essential to fix it sooner rather than later. Test the seals on the window frame by feeling for cold air.

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

Your window frames are made to move a bit as they have to do in order to keep the glass sheets in the right place. In time, this special packaging material can become compressed. This can cause the seal to be broken. This will allow the air to circulate between the panes, which will reduce your window's energy efficiency.

A damaged seal is a clear indication that your double glazing has failed and must be fixed as soon as possible. A blown seal will prevent your double glazing from performing its primary purpose of keeping cold out and warm inside. Furthermore, a blow-off seal will let your home's moisture in, which can cause mold and other unpleasant conditions. Contact a double-glazing specialist as soon you notice a blowing window seal. They can replace the entire unit.